Playwrights’ ‘thrilling’ debuts share the Susan Smith Blackburn prize

The Guardian - World NewsEN 2 min read 100% complete by Chris WiegandFebruary 26, 2026 at 08:45 PM

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The Susan Smith Blackburn prize, awarded annually to female, transgender, and non-binary playwrights, was jointly awarded to Hannah Doran and Ro Reddick for their debut plays. Doran's "The Meat Kings! (Inc) of Brooklyn Heights," set in a New York butcher shop, explores themes of immigration and financial precarity. Reddick's "Cold War Choir Practice," a coming-of-age story set in a roller rink in 1987, draws on the playwright's experiences in a children's chorus. Both playwrights will receive a $25,000 cash prize and a signed print. The judges praised both plays for their originality and relevance to contemporary issues, noting their theatrical impact. Past winners include Lynn Nottage and Annie Baker.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Arthur Miller 30% Benedict Lombe 40% Julie Hesmondhalgh 40% Clubbed Thumb 50% MCC Theater 50% Park Theatre 50% Papatango ×260% Cold War Choir Practice ×270% The Meat Kings! (Inc) 70% Ro Reddick ×380% Hannah Doran ×380% Susan Smith Blackburn Prize ×290%

Keywords

playwrights 100% susan smith blackburn prize 100% debut plays 90% theater 70% the meat kings! 60% new writing 60% cold war choir practice 60% coming-of-age story 50% financial precarity 40% immigration 40%

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Very Positive

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The Guardian - World News

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playwrights susan smith blackburn prize debut plays theater the meat kings!new writing cold war choir practice coming-of-age story financial precarity immigration

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