The shortlist for the fourth annual Wicked Young Writers’ Award has been announced.
100 entries have made the shortlist with over 5,200 submissions being received for the award. Established in 2010, the award aims to inspire self-expression and creativity through the writing of young people aged between 5-25 years old.
This year’s entries saw young people exploring themes and concerns such as ageing, enduring love and loss, global warming, bullying, self-harm and the effects of war.
Michael Morpurgo said of this year’s Award: “All these talented young writers have allowed their imagination to live and breathe. They haven’t been afraid to tell their stories and speak their poems down and to express themselves with originality and flair. I have loved reading their writing and hope that you will as well.”
Wicked’s Executive Producer, Michael McCabe said: “As a show,Wicked strives to draw upon the thrill of live performance to inspire discussion around its story and themes. It's hugely rewarding to see so many young people across the country engage with these values through the Wicked Young Writers’ Award.”
The overall winners will be announced on Thursday 7 August at a special event at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre, home of the award-winning musical.
