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CALLOUT FOR MUSICAL THEATRE WRITERS IN SURREY

18th July 2025

Following a hugely successful first year, the Surrey Musical Theatre Development Programme is back – and applications are now open for 2025.

Last year’s programme saw original songs performed for HRH Prince Edward during his Royal Visit to Woking, featured in Janie Dee’s Beautiful World cabaret, and culminated in Sing a Song of Surrey, a dazzling showcase at the Rhoda McGaw Theatre – starring a stellar West End cast and hosted by Woking native and renowned lexicographer Susie Dent.

This unique, producer-led initiative is designed to support the development of new musical theatre writing talent in Surrey. Run in partnership between The Ambassadors Woking and Write Me A Song Ltd, and supported by ATG Entertainment, the programme is free to participate in and provides an exciting platform for Surrey-based composers, lyricists, songwriters, and playwrights.

About the Programme

Participants will attend fortnightly sessions at The Ambassadors in Woking, working on songwriting and book development under the guidance of course facilitator Neil Marcus (Co-Producer of Cable Street, and former Executive Director of Mercury Musical Developments). The 10-month programme includes developmental tasks, collaborative workshops, and opportunities to present work at the 220-seat Rhoda McGaw Theatre.

Guest theatre practitioners, musicians, and artists will also be involved throughout the programme.

Neil Marcus, Producer and Course Facilitator, shares his excitement on the return of the programme:

“The programme was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with a group of exciting emerging writers while exploring Surrey’s rich history. I’m thrilled that ATG Entertainment is championing a second year.”

Laura McMillan, Venue Director at The Ambassadors Woking, said:

“We’re so excited that the Surrey Musical Theatre Development Programme has received a second year of funding from ATG Entertainment to discover more local talent. The first year was a huge success, with songs performed for HRH Prince Edward and a wonderful showcase at our Rhoda McGaw Theatre. I can’t wait to see the incredible artists Neil and his team discover in this second year.”

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to composers, lyricists, songwriters, and playwrights who:

Are based in Surrey
Have at least one professional credit
Can commit to attending fortnightly sessions on Mondays (4pm-7pm) in Woking
Are prepared to cover their own travel costs

Previous participants are welcome to reapply, though places cannot be guaranteed.

The 2025 cohort will collaborate on a brand-new musical about a group of writers who meet fortnightly in Woking to develop their craft.

The programme actively welcomes applications from under-represented voices in the cultural sector.

How to Apply

To apply, please send a sample of your work and a short biography to WokingMarketing@atgentertainment.com for consideration.

If you’d prefer to perform your work in person at the venue rather than submit via email, just get in touch to arrange a convenient time to chat.

Please submit your work and biography, or get in touch to arrange an in-person session, by Monday 25^th August.

The Surrey Musical Theatre Development Programme is proudly supported by ATG Entertainment. Its first year also received support from the Noël Coward Foundation and Arts Council England.

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