The winning team of writers will be awarded a commission of £12,000 to complete a full draft of a new musical over a 12-month period supported and mentored throughout by Perfect Pitch and Royal & Derngate. At the end of the year, once the show has been developed through workshops and readings, it will be presented in a professional staged reading.

The judging panel will include performers Michael Ball and Janie Dee, directors Rachel Kavanaugh and Kerry Michael and playwright Samuel Adamson.

In a press statement, Stephen Fry (Patron of Perfect Pitch), commented, "As Patron of Perfect Pitch, I’m delighted that we are continuing to offer unique opportunities for writers and supporting musical theatre in this country. This award is the perfect opening for emerging writers to gain a foothold in this industry and cut their teeth while creating something truly original, and we hope it will become a touchstone for writers and composers alike who wish to gain more experience and showcase their skills. I’m proud to support this award."

The award is open to all U.K.-based writers — from playwrights and screenwriters to novelists and songwriters — and no previous experience of writing a musical is necessary.

To apply, visit http://www.perfectpitchmusicals.com/award.php. Closing date for entires is Oct. 31.