A powerful and thought-provoking play, Sapling, has emerged victorious from the Women's Prize for Playwriting 2025, captivating audiences and judges alike. This play, set against the backdrop of Belfast during the Troubles, delves into the consequences of unaddressed trauma, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.
The judges were unanimous in their praise for Sapling, authored by Georgina Duncan, a playwright from Lancashire with a unique voice. Ellie Keel, the founder director of the prize, described it as a dream come true for producers and a deeply moving experience for audiences. She highlighted Duncan's writing as full of heart and vivid energy, with an extraordinary craft that shines through every scene.
At the heart of Sapling lies the murder of Conor Flynn by a fellow child during the tumultuous final years of the Troubles. This act of violence, which shocks a community already ravaged by decades of conflict, sets the stage for a gripping narrative. The story then shifts its focus to Conor's brother, Gerry Flynn, as he navigates life ten years after the tragedy, at the tender age of sixteen.
Despite the challenges of a deteriorating home environment, the complexities of adolescence, and the ever-present shadow of a brother who was taken too soon, Gerry manages to keep his life together - until one fateful day when everything shatters. His brother's memorial garden is vandalized, his killer is released from prison, and the arrival of a charismatic stranger named Ryan forces Gerry to confront a haunting question: Is Ryan the answer to his problems, or the very reason they exist?
Sapling is a tender yet darkly humorous tale that explores the consequences of neglecting deep-rooted pain. Organizers of the award, which was established in 2019 as the only national prize dedicated to supporting playwrights who identify as female or non-binary, received an impressive 1,275 entries for this edition - the highest number yet. The prize, open to English-language plays exceeding 60 minutes in duration, offers the first-place winner £20,000, along with the opportunity for Ellie Keel Productions, Paines Plough, and Sheffield Theatres to co-produce the work.
The judges, an esteemed panel that included Indhu Rubasingham, artistic director of the National Theatre, actor Romola Garai, and Katharine Viner, editor-in-chief of The Guardian, among others, underwent a rigorous selection process. Keel emphasized the impressive standard of all five final plays, reflecting the talent and potential of the playwrights involved.
In addition to the main prize, it was announced that Kristin Scott Thomas will be the inaugural recipient of a newly created lifetime achievement award, the Leading Light award. This award aims to recognize a leading female figure in the arts industry for her enduring influence, distinguished body of work, and outstanding contributions to culture.
The winners were celebrated at an awards ceremony held on Monday at the prestigious West End venue, @sohoplace.
