Johnny McKnight

Johnny McKnight is a Reader in Screenwriting/Playwriting and Researcher at the School of English, University of St Andrews. He is a renowned writer, director, and educator with over 60 professional theatre productions and 50 hours of screen credits. His works include WENDY HOOSE, THE INCREDIBLE ADVENTURES OF SEE THRU SAM, and screen contributions to HOLBY CITY and RIVER CITY. He co-founded the Random Accomplice Theatre Company and served as Senior Tutor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland's Youthworks programme.

Research interests focus on post-modernist pantomime, inclusive practice in theatre, and the intersection of personal politics with creative practice. He has developed educational resources for Scottish Opera and led teacher training modules. Recent projects include commissioned musicals, a sitcom, and a feature film, alongside international performances and collaborations with the Edinburgh International Festival and National Theatre of Scotland.

• Awards: Best Panto, Achievement In Inclusive Practice, RTS Scotland Best Writer Nomination (2023), and multiple Critics Award nominations.
• Advising/Grants: Mentorship roles with Playwrights Studio Scotland; commissions from Scottish Opera, Dundee Rep, and others.

Key affiliations include the National Theatre of Scotland (Associate Artist, 2020–2023) and ongoing collaborations with institutions like the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.