Chicago Writers' Bloc is a play development group that focuses on presenting new plays developed in monthly sessions and regular new play festivals. 

Led by Joanne Koch, a widely produced playwright and noted Emeritus Director of the National Louis University Master’s in Written Communication Program, the not-for-profit 501 (c ) (3) Writers’ Bloc has brought over 250 new plays and musicals to Chicago area audiences, supported in part by grants and by festival attendees and contributors.  

Many of these plays have gone on to win national and international prizes with productions locally and around the country, including Midwest, East Coast, West Coast, off-Broadway and in publications. Our thanks go to all our participating playwrights and our supporters, who by attending our festivals contribute to the evolution of “Theater” throughout the Chicago area and beyond.  

The Chicago Writers' Bloc meets monthly on Monday evenings. Currently meetings are held on zoom. To secure a zoom invite and receive the current meeting dates, please email Joanne at

info@writersblocfest.org