Mission
We develop and produce new plays and musicals that inspire and compel social change by telling stories that expose our humanity. By illuminating social and ethical questions through art, we strive to create provocative theater that promotes empathy, compassion, and inclusion.

Purpose
CURTAIN RISING is a Mini Reading Festival dedicated to uplifting early-stage playwrights and their untold stories. This initiative creates an inclusive platform for diverse voices, fostering dialogue on themes of alienation, reconciliation, and humanity. Through thought-provoking theater, we aim to inspire empathy, compassion, and social change.

Submission Guidelines
Eligibility: Open to playwrights whose work has not been staged in a total production, including festivals and showcases.

Length: Plays must be under 90 minutes.

Characters: Limited to six (6) characters.

Location: Playwrights must be based in or have access to NYC.

Content: This should align with our mission, reflecting social impact themes:
" Develop and produce new plays and musicals that inspire and compel
social change by telling stories that expose our humanity. By illuminating social and
ethical questions through art, we strive to create provocative theater that promotes empathy, compassion, and inclusion."

Awards & Benefits
Development of the two winning plays through a 29-hour Equity developmental
presentation, including full creative teams.

The Gayle Waxenberg Award and financial stipend.

Exposure to theater patrons and industry professionals.

Festival Details
Venue: Sea Dog Theater at St. George's Episcopal Church.

Event: Two staged, developmental readings, separated by an intermission, performed
before an audience of industry professionals and theater patrons, followed by a
celebratory award ceremony.

Join Us in Spotlighting Emerging Voices!
Playwrights, universities, and creative communities are encouraged to participate. Together,
we’ll shape stories that challenge perspectives, celebrate diversity, and inspire change.

Dates:

Submissions Open: December 3, 2024
Submissions Close: January 10, 2025 (or upon reaching 25 accepted entries)
Winners Announced: March 10, 2025
Rehearsals: April 21–26, 2025
Final Presentation: April 26, 2025

For more information: curtainrising@newyorkrep.org

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