Georgina Duncan Wins Women’s Prize for Playwriting with "Sapling"

Georgina Duncan, a 30-year-old playwright, won the Women’s Prize for Playwriting for her drama "Sapling," which is set against the backdrop of the Belfast Troubles in the 1990s. The play centers on 16-year-old Gerry, whose older brother Connor was murdered a decade earlier by another child. Duncan's emotional connection to the theme of grief is evident, as she describes the play as exploring "the scar tissue behind grief."

The Guardian

The Women’s Prize for Playwriting was established in 2019 by producer Ellie Keel, alongside Katie Posner and Charlotte Bennett of the touring company Paines Plough. The initiative aims to address the underrepresentation of female playwrights in national theater, as evidenced by the fact that only seven women have won the Olivier Award for Best New Play in its 50-year history. Duncan emphasizes the significance of such awards, stating, “Prizes are one of the few things we’ve got that are sort of a level playing field.”

The Guardian

Duncan, a graduate of the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, has a background in acting, which she credits for shaping her writing process. She recalls writing much of "Sapling" during her commutes, often losing track of time while immersed in her work. Despite her talent, Duncan faced challenges in gaining recognition, describing her journey as one of being a "nearly man" in a tough industry.

The Guardian

Duncan expressed her disbelief and joy upon winning the award, stating, “This prize has completely changed my life.” The £20,000 prize will allow her to dedicate time to further develop her craft, marking a pivotal moment in her career. She now feels validated in her identity as a playwright, saying, “I feel like I’ve been legitimised.”

The Guardian

Despite her success, Duncan acknowledges the difficulties faced by emerging playwrights, particularly those without industry connections. She noted that the competitive landscape can be daunting, making it hard for new voices to break through.

The Guardian

• “The first sentence I heard her say, I was like, ‘That could be any of the plays.’ Then I was like, ‘Holy shit! This is the maddest thing that’s ever happened to me.’” — Georgina Duncan, Playwright

The Guardian

• “Prizes are one of the few things we’ve got that are sort of a level playing field,” — Georgina Duncan, Playwright

The Guardian

• “It is the greatest gift. This prize has completely changed my life.” — Georgina Duncan, Playwright

The Guardian

With the recognition from the Women’s Prize, Duncan aims to explore her writing further and hopes to contribute more significantly to the theater landscape. She is determined to continue developing her voice and storytelling abilities, inspired by her experiences and the support from the prize.

The Guardian