BBC International Audio Drama Competition 2026

The BBC World Service and British Council are running an international audio drama competition. Writers from outside the UK can enter with a 40-50 minute audio drama in English (either as a first language or a second language) and compete for a cash prize, UK-based award ceremony attendance, and a world premiere recording on BBC World Service platforms. The winners will have travel and accommodation covered by the BBC, with a special commendation for the runner-up in honor of Georgi Markov.

Cash prize; invitation to award ceremony in the UK in 2026; participation in recording for a world premiere on BBC World Service platforms; flight and accommodation covered for the winner.

Open to anyone over age 18 as of 4 June 2025 who is not a resident of the UK, with entrants required to be either a professional or previously published writer if applicable.

Submit a 40-50 minute script as a PDF and a 400-word synopsis as a PDF via the online entry form or by post/email.