ABOUT THE COMMISSION

The New Voices Writing Commission is an opportunity for Buckinghamshire-based writers looking to get their work onto the stage as a paid playwright.

Writers are invited to send in their play submissions, along with an extract from the proposed script, to be in with a chance of winning the paid commission, and seeing their work staged at Queens Park Arts Centre's Limelight Theatre, plus other venues in Bucks.

The 2025 commission is now closed and the winning play will be staged in March 2026. We hope to secure further funding to keep the commission going in 2026 and beyond.

ROTHSCHILD FOUNDATION

This project has been funded by the Rothschild Foundation as part of a three-year grant supporting and expanding Unbound's work.

Find out more

'I'M ANGRY, BUT LOOK AT THIS DOG' (2025)

BY HARRY LOCK

Rumour has it there’s a riot on the way. ‘The Revolution for Societal Refocus’ have announced it on social media, in response to the government’s failure to meet their environmental reform targets. But when and where does it begin? And how far will it go?

Jack, a passionate and opinionated young man, is watching the news relentlessly for updates. His flatmates, Chloe and Luke, are more easily distracted. They care, but only as far as it affects them. As the riots escalate, fear and tension rises inside the flat…

Audience Feedback:

"Loved the performance and Q+A at QPAC. Very thought-provoking and enjoyable. Congratulations to all involved."

"Absolutely amazing performance! Well worth a watch."

"A timely piece of theatre. Inquisitive and engaging in a subject that all of us ought to be concerned by."

"Avoids the pitfalls of social commentary by approaching its subject matter with a lightness of touch. Engaging and urgent without lecturing the audience. Leaves them to draw their own conclusions."

'ALIENS DO EXIST' (2024)

BY MICKY SCOTT

Jess has been born into a world that is not built for her. She must navigate life whilst feeling completely alien to everyone around her.

After being introduced to the idea that she may be autistic by her therapist, Jess begins the journey of understanding, letting go and facing the trauma caused by hiding behind the mask she has created to appear ‘normal’.

Audience Feedback:

"Absolutely stunning piece of work... it gives people an insight into Autism that many people wouldn’t have had."

"It was an amazing play, I found it deeply moving and very relatable in a way I have very rarely experienced."

"Educational, thought provoking. Beautiful story, amazing acting, great use of stage. We need more theatre like this!"

"Superb piece that gives a true insight into Autism and real feelings."

"I've never been so moved by a piece of theatre."