Georgina Duncan’s Sapling, winner of the 2025 Women’s Prize for Playwriting, will receive its world premiere at Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond from 5 June to 3 July 2027, before transferring to Sheffield Theatres from 7–24 July 2027.
Overview
Set in Northern Ireland in 1990, Sapling follows Gerry, a teenager living with the aftermath of his brother’s murder. Ten years on, the killer is released under a new identity, the memorial garden has been destroyed and a stranger arrives in town. The play is described as a warm-hearted, funny and tender coming-of-age story shaped by grief, division and the pressures of growing up.
Creative Team
Sapling is written by Georgina Duncan and directed by Claire O’Reilly. It is co-produced by Paines Plough, Orange Tree Theatre, Sheffield Theatres and the Women’s Prize for Playwriting.
Dates & Venues
Orange Tree Theatre, Richmond: 5 June–3 July 2027.
Sheffield Theatres: 7–24 July 2027.
Why See It
This is a strong one to watch for anyone interested in new writing, award-winning plays and emerging theatre voices. The Women’s Prize for Playwriting has become an important route for new work reaching major stages, and Sapling arrives with that backing already behind it.
Accessibility
Check the Orange Tree Theatre and Sheffield Theatres listings when booking for the latest information on captioning, audio description, step-free access and other access provision.
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