Best Scottish Playwrights of All Time
Scotland has a proud tradition of producing playwrights whose works have resonated across the globe. From contemporary innovators to historical icons, these writers have tackled themes of identity, politics, and the human condition with boldness and creativity. Here, we highlight some of the most significant Scottish playwrights and their contributions to the world of theatre.
David Greig
One of Scotland’s most celebrated contemporary playwrights, David Greig is known for his innovative storytelling and exploration of global themes. Works like The Events and Outlying Islands have cemented his reputation as a leading voice in modern theatre.
Find out about David Greig’s most popular plays here →
Liz Lochhead
A poet, playwright, and former Scots Makar (national poet of Scotland), Liz Lochhead brings lyrical beauty and biting wit to her work. Plays like Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off and Perfect Days explore themes of identity, history, and relationships with a distinctly Scottish voice.
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John McGrath
A trailblazer in political theatre, John McGrath founded the 7:84 Theatre Company and is best known for The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black, Black Oil. His works champion the stories of working-class Scotland, blending music, humour, and sharp social commentary.
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Douglas Maxwell
Renowned for his vibrant and imaginative plays, Douglas Maxwell’s works like Decky Does a Bronco and Our Bad Magnet capture the complexities of Scottish identity and adolescence. His engaging narratives have made him a favourite in contemporary theatre.
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Rona Munro
A versatile writer for stage and screen, Rona Munro’s The James Plays trilogy offers an epic and intimate look at Scotland’s history. Her other works, including Bold Girls and Iron, tackle themes of power, family, and resilience.
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Jo Clifford
A transgender playwright, Jo Clifford has pushed boundaries with her deeply personal and socially conscious works. Plays like The Gospel According to Jesus, Queen of Heaven and Losing Venice challenge conventions and offer fresh perspectives on identity and faith.
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Peter Arnott
With a career spanning decades, Peter Arnott has written extensively about Scottish history and politics. Works like The Breathing House and White Rose delve into the nation’s social fabric with incisive detail.
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Alan Bissett
Known for his dynamic solo performances and insightful storytelling, Alan Bissett’s works like The Moira Monologues capture contemporary Scottish life with humour and authenticity.
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Sue Glover
Sue Glover’s Bondagers is a Scottish classic, bringing to life the experiences of women in 19th-century rural Scotland. Her work combines historical accuracy with emotional depth, offering a unique perspective on Scotland’s past.
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Gregory Burke
Gregory Burke’s Black Watch is an international sensation, exploring the experiences of Scottish soldiers in Iraq with raw power and theatrical innovation. His ability to tackle challenging themes has made him one of Scotland’s most important playwrights.
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Cora Bissett
A multi-talented artist, Cora Bissett is celebrated for her deeply personal and socially resonant works. Her play What Girls Are Made Of, inspired by her own experiences as a teenage indie rock musician, has been praised for its raw honesty and musical energy. She has also collaborated on powerful productions like Roadkill, which tackles human trafficking, and Glasgow Girls, a vibrant musical about a group of schoolgirls campaigning for asylum seekers’ rights.
Find out about Cora Bissett’s most popular plays here →
Nicola McCartney
A gifted playwright and director, Nicola McCartney is celebrated for her deeply human storytelling and focus on themes of identity, memory, and trauma. Her acclaimed play Heritage examines the complexities of Northern Irish identity, while Lifeboat recounts the true story of two girls who survived a wartime shipwreck, blending historical depth with emotional impact. McCartney’s works often explore resilience in the face of adversity, earning her a respected place in Scottish theatre.
Find out about Nicola McCartney’s most popular plays here →