The Royal Court Theatre and Genesis Foundation announce multi-year partnership to support new play development

28 October 2025

John Studzinski & David Byrne (c) The AMI Collection

Today the Genesis Foundation announces its return to the Royal Court Theatre with a major new multi-year partnership investing in play commissioning and development.

The partnership will include underwriting a suite of annual Genesis Commissions and Genesis Labs for the future pipeline of new work – including its first commission in 2026: The Afronauts by Ryan Calais Cameron (For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy, Retrograde).

The announcement coincides with the Royal Court’s 70th anniversary programme, which included the Jerwood Foundation also returning as a supporter.

John Studzinski, Founder and Chairman of the Genesis Foundation, said: 

“I am delighted that the Genesis Foundation is once again supporting the Royal Court theatre with the new Genesis Next Generation programme. This initiative embodies our commitment to nurturing emerging talent and supporting innovative new writing under David Byrne’s leadership. The Royal Court has been pivotal in fostering bold and resonant new works. Our collaboration aims to create essential platforms for artists at the start of their careers, ensuring the continued influence of daring voices in theatre.

Building on a rich 70-year history with the Royal Court, we are excited to support the next generation of playwrights and uphold the theatre’s role as a beacon for creativity and experimentation.“

Find out more about the Royal Court’s 70th anniversary programme