In 2023, The EU Killed My Dad—Aaron Kilercioglu’s gripping, genre-blending play—won the Woven Voices Prize. The story follows Berker, who travels from Britain to Turkey to reconnect with his estranged father, only to learn from his sister Elif that their baba has already died. What begins as a personal reckoning quickly spirals into a fast-paced investigation of family, identity, and hidden histories—featuring British spies, Turkish soldiers, and London kebab shops in a thrilling narrative that spans decades.

Kilercioglu is known for his bold, politically resonant storytelling. His previous sell-out show For a Palestinian earned acclaim at venues including Bristol Old Vic, Camden People’s Theatre, and Underbelly. With The EU Killed My Dad, he continues to push creative boundaries, telling urgent stories that provoke and connect.

We caught up with Aaron to talk about his experience with the Woven Voices Prize and what’s coming next.a

1. What inspired you to apply for the Woven Voices Prize?

Honestly, it was the opportunity to have my work staged professionally in an amazing theatre. The pipeline for early-career artists is becoming increasingly elusive, so the experience felt like a real privilege.

2. How has winning the prize shaped your career?

Winning the prize gave me the first opportunity to have my work staged by others – not having to worry about all the usual struggles that are involved with putting on a piece of fringe/studio theatre. The experience gave me the confidence to write more ambitiously, to work on things for bigger stages and wider contexts.

3. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone thinking of applying this year?

Don’t try and second-guess what you think the prize wants to see from you. Always follow what feels exciting.

4. What are you working on next? I’m working on a handful of plays for various London theatres, as well as a couple of films.