Calling All Deadly Writers: your chance to shine
Yirra Yaakin in WA has announced the return of the Yirra Yaarnz Writers’ Group as part of their 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 advisors 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 literary advisors 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 literary advisor 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.
Expressions of Interest close on May 27.
For application details or further information, please contact: jess@yirrayaakin.com.au
- Yirra Yaakin [Yir-raarh Yaarh-kin] means “Stand Tall” in Noongar. Based in the heart of the Noongar Nation – a distinct Aboriginal cultural group from the south-west of Western Australia – Yirra Yaakin is Australia’s biggest Aboriginal-led theatre company.
