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Deptford Scratch

What is Deptford Scratch?

Deptford Scratch was established in 2024 to champion new writing and emerging creatives. Bringing together writers, actors, directors and theatre makers, the programme has created consistent opportunities for new makers wishing to test their work in a supportive setting. Now, we are delighted to expand the offering to include panels, networking and feedback sessions.

What started as a scratch night has grown into something bigger; a creative hub built around collaboration and connection. We are also now able to extend opportunities for stage managers, photographers and videographers. We can’t wait for you to join us.

Get ahead! Take a look at our requirements for writers submissions. Opening soon.

Deptford Scratch: In Conversation - Pay What You Decide

The evening will begin with a TBA speaker sharing their experience within the creative industry. There will be an opportunity to ask questions ahead of time and on the night. Post-speaker, we will open up the room for facilitated networking in an informal and welcoming setting.

Come for the insight, stay for the people.

The 2026 date has now passed. The next event will take place on Thursday 14 January from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Get the date in your diary and we will see you there!

Take Me to the Event!
24

New Writing Pieces Platformed

We have platformed 24 pieces of new writing to date and provided connections to support them on their journeys beyond Deptford Scratch.
100+

More than 100 Artists

We have provided opportunities for more than 100 up and coming artists to share their work and showcase their talents.

Deptford Scratch: A Seat at the Table - Free by Application

For upcoming editions of Deptford Scratch, we’ll be democratising the selection process and inviting members of our creative community to be on the selection panel.

Two creatives will be invited to join the panel alongside the Deptford Lounge team and together, we’ll choose six new works to be showcased at the next Deptford Scratch. A small group of actors will assist this process by bringing the scripts to life during a closed table read.

Applications for those wishing to be considered will be open soon.

Deptford Scratch: Link Up - Free

Our Link Up evening is an opportunity for creatives (actors, directors, stage managers, photographers, videographers) to learn about the shows selected for the upcoming Deptford Scratch and how they can take part.

Each selected writer will pitch their short play then open the floor for your questions.

Then, each writer will host a roundtable featuring excerpts and materials from their project, giving creatives the chance to dive into the work and register interest directly in the productions that excite them most.

As part of our commitment this community-building process, writers can only select creatives who attend Deptford Scratch: Link Up.

Registration link coming soon.

Deptford Scratch has proven itself to be a wonderful incubator for emerging theatre talent.
Everything Theatre

Deptford Scratch - Pay What You Decide

We host two editions of Deptford Scratch each year

Deptford Scratch, in April, is open to all artists

Deptford Scratch: Global Majority Spotlight, in October, is dedicated to Global Majority creatives.

Each scratch is supported by its own programme of community led events including A Seat at the Table, Link Up and Reflect, creating opportunities for connection and collaboration outside of the scratch itself. We’re also opening up backstage opportunities for stage managers to gain hands-on experience and for photographers and videographers to capture and shape the energy of the event.

We also continue our partnership with Greenwich Theatre, where the pieces will transfer one month after their showing at Deptford Lounge.

Deptford Scratch isn’t just about showcasing new work. It’s about helping it grow.

Ticket link coming soon.

Deptford Scratch: Reflect - Free

This informal reflection session allows for creatives from Deptford Scratch to regroup between the Deptford Lounge performance and the transfer to Greenwich Theatre.

Informed by feedback gathered from the first show, creatives will be invited reflect and exchange ideas ahead of their next performance. While the session is primarily for participating creatives, audience members who express interest are also welcome to join the conversation and provide direct feedback in the room.

Registration link coming soon.