Tolu Okanlawon has been named the winner of the 2025 Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting with his debut play, Shooters.

A portrait of a man unraveling; pitted against his daughters, nature and the universe.

This is challenging theatre for audiences and cast alike - but also absolutely vital. Everyone should see it. Maureen Beattie in Escaped Alone.© Johan Persson.

The production runs at the Royal Exchange Theatre from 27 June to 26 July 2025 with opening night on Wednesday 2 July 2025.

Creating exceptional new work is the bedrock of the Royal Exchange’s longstanding partnership with Manchester International Festival. For summer 2025 the Royal Exchange Theatre’s commission of ...

Liberation is an emotionally resonant new work commissioned by the Royal Exchange Theatre that brings to life a pivotal moment in Black British and African history. Written by Ntombizodwa Nyoni and ...

The top prize of £20,000 went to the debut play by British-Nigerian writer Tolu Okanlawon from Hackney, East London. Based on ...