National Theatre/Theatre503, UK Online Masterclass
The National Theatre Nigeria, in a strategic collaboration with Theatre503, UK, is set to host an intensive Advanced Scriptwriting Masterclass Series aimed at nurturing and refining the skills of emerging and mid-career Nigerian scriptwriters.
This initiative is part of the National Theatre’s renewed commitment to capacity building in the creative sector, aligning directly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s focus on youth empowerment, talent development, and economic diversification through the creative economy.
This carefully curated program will run in three high-impact online classes, each focusing on critical areas of scriptwriting:
Plot Development: Building stories with strong beginnings, middles, and endings that captivate audiences.
Character Arcs: Creating dynamic characters whose journeys shape the narrative.
Dialogue Crafting: Writing powerful conversations that reveal character, move the plot, and create tension.
Each class will explore specialized forms of storytelling: Writing from History, Autobiography, and Play Adaptation (Literature to Stage).
Speaking on the training, the General Manager/CEO of the National Theatre, Mrs. Tola Akerele, emphasized the institution’s drive to support the federal government’s human capital development goals and also states that “this partnership is one of many steps we’re taking to ensure Nigerian creatives are not only seen but heard on the global stage. We’re investing in people, and that is the essence of true national development.”
Participants will be selected through a competitive application process and must already possess basic scriptwriting skills. The training is not entry-level, and only those seeking to hone their craft to professional standards are encouraged to apply. A participation fee will be charged for those accepted, ensuring commitment and quality engagement.
This initiative not only showcases the National Theatre’s efficient and proactive approach to talent development, but also its capacity to deliver world-class collaborations that will redefine the Nigerian storytelling landscape
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!
Deadline for submission: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
How to Apply:
Interested participants should submit the following:
A short bio (max 200 words), sample script or an excerpt (max 5 pages), brief statement (max 250 words) explaining why they want to join the masterclass.
Send All-in-one DOC or PDF format to;
EMAIL: ptts@nationaltheatre.gov.ng
Host: Tola Akerele; GM/CEO National Theatre, Nigeria
About National Theatre Nigeria
As the apex cultural institution in Nigeria, the National Theatre is committed to promoting artistic excellence, preserving cultural heritage, and empowering the next generation of Nigerian creatives through targeted training, international collaborations, and dynamic programming.
About Theatre503, UK
Theatre503 is a leading UK theatre company dedicated to discovering and nurturing new voices. With a reputation for excellence in new writing, Theatre503 has launched the careers of some of the most exciting talents in British and international theatre.