Deadline Extended To August 7 For Be Original Theater Festival Submissions

New Generation Theatrical has extended the deadline for play submissions for the inaugural Be Original Theater Festival at the Dr. Phillips Center. Submissions will now be accepted through August 7, 2019.

The Be Original Theater Festival is looking for original, cutting-edge works that have never been presented before an audience. Scripts must be less than 90 pages in length, with a preferred maximum of 10 actors (roles can use swings).

"Our goal is to invest in new, emerging artists by offering special resources, including a high-profile and professional theater venue, to empower artists to create new, pioneering works," said Executive Director Michael Knight. "Our vision is that by providing a safe and diverse platform, we can present inspired pieces which boldly push against the boundaries of conventional theater."

Submissions will be blind reviewed and selected by a panel of local theater professionals including writers, producers and directors. The panel will select 8 plays to receive table readings, and 8 plays to receive simple staged readings, which are fully staged with minimal set. For the 16 scripts selected, there is a $100 participation fee for the festival - this fee is all-inclusive of venue, cast and directors provided by Generation Productions, audio and lighting along with technicians, as well as admission to the Festival Awards Ceremony and a private post-festival concert featuring Von Smith (Postmodern Jukebox, American Idol). One $5,000 writing grant will be awarded to a play in both the table reading and staged reading category, as well as a $2,500 writing grant in each category to playwrights under 21 years of age.

The Be Original Theater Festival will be held at the Dr. Phillips Center October 4 - 6, 2019, and will feature 32 total performances over three days, spread throughout the Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater and the Rehearsal Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center. The weekend-long festival will also feature post-show talkbacks and Q&A sessions with the writers and creative team at each performance, as well as a social area outside the Pugh theater with food, drinks, and a chance to meet and interact with playwrights, actors, and creatives throughout the festival.

For full guidelines and to submit a play for consideration, visit www.NewGenTheatrical.org/BeOriginal.