Yirra Yaarnz Writers’ Group
Looking Ahead New stories, New Voices
Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company continues to nurture emerging Aboriginal playwrights and create opportunities for the next generation of storytellers.
“Through Yirra Yaarnz Writers Group, I’ve gained confidence in my writing, found community, courage and a renewed sense of purpose.” Kalarni Murray (Anaiwan, Barkindji), 2025
Calling All Deadly Writers!
Yirra Yaakin is excited to announce the return of the Yirra Yaarnz Writers’ Group as part of our 2026 program.
Yirra Yaarnz is a supportive space for local, emerging and established Aboriginal playwrights to develop their writing through mentorship, dramaturgy and practical workshops. Participants will be guided by acclaimed dramaturgs Hellie Turner and Polly Low, who will support writers throughout the creative process.
The program begins with a two-day weekend intensive, followed by 15 weeks of one-on-one dramaturgical support to help develop a new short work.
During the program, participants will work with their assigned dramaturg to create a 10-minute play. On completion of the writing process and subject to Company approval, the plays will be read by professional actors for an invited audience of friends, family and industry.
Key Dates
• Weekend Intensive Workshops: 13–14 June 2026
• Feedback Session: Saturday 27 June 2026
• Group Reading: Saturday 5 September 2026
• Public Readings: Friday 2 & Saturday 3 October 2026
Following the weekend workshops, each participant will be paired with a dramaturg who will support them throughout the 15-week development period leading up to the final readings.
There are 12 places available, and previous participants are welcome to apply.
If you’re an Aboriginal writer interested in developing new work and connecting with other storytellers, we’d love to hear from you.
EOIs close 27 May 2026.
For application details or further information, please contact: jess@yirrayaakin.com.au
Team
Director
Bobbi Henry (Whadjuk)
Dramaturgs
Polly Low
Hellie Turner
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Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company