The BBC World Service and the British Council are launching the 29th International Audio Drama Competition, inviting writers from around the globe to submit original scripts for a chance to win a cash prize, participate in a UK award ceremony, and have their work broadcast to a global audience. Previously known as the International Playwriting Competition, this prestigious competition offers a unique platform for both established and emerging writers to showcase their creativity and storytelling prowess through the captivating medium of audio drama. Entries are open from February 19, 2025, and close on June 4, 2025.
The competition embraces linguistic diversity with two distinct categories: “English as a First Language” and “English as a Second Language.” This inclusive approach encourages participation from writers with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, enriching the global literary landscape. The competition aims to discover and nurture new voices, offering a springboard for talented writers to gain international recognition and connect with audiences worldwide. The winning dramas will be recorded by the BBC and premiered on their global platforms, reaching millions of listeners across the world.
The competition’s impact extends beyond the winners, fostering cross-cultural exchange and promoting understanding through the power of storytelling. The previous iteration of the competition in 2023 saw a remarkable 677 entries from 94 countries, highlighting the global reach and appeal of this prestigious event. The winning entries from 2023 showcased the diversity and ingenuity of the submissions, with “The Mighty Corbeau,” by Julien Marvin Neaves from Trinidad and Tobago, winning the First Language category, and “Steady Eyes,” by Michaela Kwon from South Korea, taking the top prize in the Second Language category.
Past winners have lauded the transformative impact of the competition, describing it as a “life-changing” and “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity. They have emphasized not only the professional recognition and exposure gained but also the enriching experience of collaborating with the BBC drama team and connecting with fellow writers from around the world. The competition serves as a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides and create meaningful connections.
The competition also features a Special Commendation for the runner-up, named in honor of Georgi Markov, a distinguished BBC World Service journalist and writer. This commendation serves as a tribute to Markov’s legacy and further underscores the competition’s commitment to recognizing exceptional writing talent. The judging panel, comprised of prominent figures in the literary world, will evaluate the submitted scripts based on their originality, creativity, and suitability for audio presentation. Previous judges have included renowned playwrights, authors, and actors, ensuring a high standard of evaluation and selection.
Aspiring participants are encouraged to submit scripts between 40-50 minutes in length, exploring any subject matter they choose. The competition welcomes diverse themes, genres, and stylistic approaches, offering writers ample creative freedom. Full details regarding submission guidelines, terms and conditions, and privacy notice can be found on the competition’s dedicated website. The International Audio Drama Competition stands as a beacon for emerging and established writers, providing a platform for their voices to be heard across the globe, fostering intercultural dialogue, and enriching the world of audio drama.
