Orlando Shakespeare Theater Seeks Submissions for PlayFest 2016

Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF is seeking new full-length plays that speak to the human condition in a fascinating and complicated contemporary world. Topics may range from today's international headlines to tonight's interpersonal issues in the bedroom. Both comedies and dramas are welcome.

Six of the new works submitted will be selected for readings in the Theater's annual play festival PlayFest in Fall 2016 and considered for fully staged productions in future seasons. All submissions are due on or before March 1, 2016.

For a complete list of submission guidelines, visit www.orlandoshakes.org/plays-events/playfest/submit.html.

PlayFest is a nationally recognized program and represents one of the country's strongest commitments to new plays. The annual weekend of staged readings is a direct pipeline to full productions in Orlando Shakes' Signature Series, as well as for the University of Central Florida's Theatre UCF. Over the years, Orlando Shakes has helped nurture and develop over 100 new plays - many of which have received subsequent productions in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, Dallas, and Washington D.C. PlayFest playwright alums include Lee Blessing, Steve Yockey, Israel Horovitz, Lauren Gunderson, Mark St. Germain, Jon Jory, and Jeffrey Hatcher.

Founded in 1989, Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF produces classic, contemporary, and children's plays and musicals. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Jim Helsinger and Managing Director PJ Albert, Orlando Shakes has grown into one of the region's most acclaimed professional Equity theaters, garnering national recognition from The Wall Street Journal's Terry Teachout. "Hence the high quality of Orlando Shakespeare, a company that deserves to be far more widely known outside Florida." With ambitious, high-caliber productions like 2014's The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, Parts I & II or 2008's chilling Macbeth performed "in the round", the Theater continues to provide an innovative world-class theatrical experience to its guests, while showcasing William Shakespeare's legacy as the cornerstone of the company. Orlando Shakes also offers immersive educational programming that serves Central Florida schools and the local community at large. For more information visit www.orlandoshakes.org.

Photo by Landon St. Gordon features PlayFest 2015's Sam by Donnetta Lavinia Grays.