Plays for Young People (12-18 years)

This section lists plays that are especially suited to young people aged 12 and above, for reading, study or performance. Please note that some of the plays included here contain adult language and/or tackle challenging issues. We're always happy to advise on the suitability of any of our plays: send us an email at info@nickhernbooks.co.uk, or call us on 020 8749 4953.

Showing 145-156 of 193 items.

Sense and Sensibility (stage version)

By Jane Austen Adapted by Mark Healy

4f 4m, doubling (7f 9m possible)

A faithful yet inventive adaptation of Jane Austen's novel, terrifically actable and readable.

The Shakespeare Revue

By Christopher Luscombe and Malcolm McKee

2f 2m, plus 1 pianist

An enchanting collection of witty music and skits about the Bard, devised for and first performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Shout

By Alexis Zegerman

Flexible casting (20+ named characters)

A funny, moving drama about anxiety, celebrating difference, and finding your voice as a teenager. Part of the 2024 National Theatre Connections Festival.

Skunk

By Zawe Ashton

3f 5m plus 5 or more f/m (can be performed by a cast of 10)

A surreal, dreamlike and hilarious play exploring the pressures and transformations that happen to teenagers as they grow up. In the Multiplay Drama series.

Sleeping Beauty (stage version)

By Rufus Norris

4f 6m doubling

The classic tale of Sleeping Beauty's curse – as seen through the eyes of the fairy who curses her.

small

By Holly Robinson

9f 10m

A compassionate and probing play about youth and aging, nostalgia and regret, and the dangers of refusing to get old. In the Nick Hern Books Multiplay Drama series featuring large-cast plays specifically written to be performed by and appeal to young people.

The Small Hours

By Katherine Soper

8f/m plus up to 16 additional small roles

A National Theatre Connections play about teenagers, nightlife, and the small choices that have momentous consequences.

Something Awful

By Tatty Hennessy

3f (playing age 13)

A thrilling play inspired by the true-crime story of the Slenderman.

A Song for Ella Grey (stage version)

By David Almond Adapted by Zoe Cooper

3f 2m

A magical retelling of the Orpheus myth, full of music, sound and storytelling, adapted from the novel by David Almond. Premiered by Pilot Theatre on UK tour in 2024.