Applications are now open for the prestigious JMK Award, which returns to the Young Vic Theatre in 2026. This celebrated award offers early-career directors the chance to direct a full-scale professional production in the Young Vic’s Maria Studio next autumn.
Established in memory of the late director James Menzies-Kitchin, the JMK Award has been instrumental in launching the careers of many acclaimed theatre makers, including Natalie Abrahami, Roy Alexander-Weise, Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu, Polly Findlay, Adam Karim, Diane Page, Josh Roche, Mark Rosenblatt, Thea Sharrock, Bijan Sheibani and Joe Hill-Gibbons.
Nadia Fall, Artistic Director of the Young Vic, said:
“I am thrilled the JMK Award is returning to the Young Vic in our ongoing commitment to champion incredible directors and be a home for the next generation of artists. I know from personal experience how vital it is for young directors to have the space to practise, experiment and meet their audience; opportunities which are so scarce today. This is a fantastic chance for an outstanding artist who wants to really develop their skills and career as a director. We can’t wait to hear from you.”
Emma Baggott and Derek Bond, Co-Chairs of the JMK Award, added:
“We are over the moon that the JMK Award is returning to the Young Vic. Both the Young Vic and the JMK Award share many values and it makes complete sense that this collaboration is once again reignited. At a time where the industry needs to be carving out more space for young artists to develop their artistic voice and hone their craft we’re delighted to be working closely with the Young Vic to facilitate and nurture the next generation of theatre directors. The JMK Award aims to level the playing field, giving all emerging directors the opportunity to pitch a fully supported professional production at the Young Vic. In a world where lack of opportunity is so palpable for those attempting to make a career as a director we hope that this opportunity offers some positivity. We are so excited to hear from you and to read your applications.”
The award is open to directors aged 18–35 with some professional training or experience, who have not directed more than three professional productions. Applicants must submit their vision for one of the following plays: Attempts on Her Life by Martin Crimp, Girls by Theresa Ikoko, The Funeral Director by Iman Qureshi, Black Men Walking by Testament or All The Little Lights by Jane Upton.
Applications close at 10am on Monday 12 January 2026, with the winner announced in spring ahead of their production opening in October 2026 for a four-week run.
More information can be found here.
