2022 Call for Entries
all entries are evaluated by at least two (sometimes three) members of our national circle of judges (comprised of working professional playwrights, screenwriters, directors and actors). at the labor day fest, twelve finalists go on to compete for top prizes awarded by our five finalist judges, some of the most accomplished playwrights working today. hear from prior year’s esteemed judges here.
2022 theme:
when we name it
In a world in which social norms, political systems, economic laws and the natural environment are all facing existential challenges, the language we use to describe the world around us takes on new urgency. In order to change a thing, we first need to name it. In order to care for something or someone it matters that we name it. If we want to understand something that confuses or frightens us, first we must name it.
Since human beings created language, the labels we assign to things, people, places, activities, relationships, complex issues, etc. etc. have influenced our view of them. There are things we carry with us throughout life that feel so important, so powerful, that sometimes we dare not name them for fear that naming them might invite them to consume us. And yet, oftentimes the act of finally naming something we’ve been living with results in a newfound freedom. And, yes, we also name people, pets, places, projects and creations.
And sadly, these days, our choices regarding how we identify certain things can even threaten to tear apart our most treasured relationships.
Your 2022 Hear Me Out entry must in some way refer to some naming and its impact on the characters you’re revealing. As always we hope you will find your own way into our festival theme and we do not require the use of any specific words, language or stylistic choices.
We only ask that your character grapples with our festival theme in some way.
And remember: your monologue must introduce us to a character who is talking to another person (or group of people). Short stories and essays will be disqualified.
For the writer determined to leave no stone unturned
in prepping for a big win:
For complete submission guidelines (including word counts), download the Official Call for Entries PDF.
awards
Golden Ear $2,500
Silver Ear $1,350
Bronze Ear $975
Honorable Mention $500
The August van der Becq Memorial Prize for Daring $2,001
To be considered for the Alvin Epstein Memorial Prize for Solo Performance or the Most Unforgettable Character Prize we must receive your entry no later than June 15, 2022 at Noon, EDT
Early Bird Prizes
Most Unforgettable Character Prize
$975 + 4 week scholarship for craft work in the RT Private Studio ($1,680 value)Alvin Epstein Memorial Prize for Solo Performers
$1,250 + 20 hrs of developmental workshop time with Roland Tec for the piece most likely to draw new audiences to the form.
NO ENTRY FEE EVER:
However, authors may submit $55 to receive one professional evaluation from one member of the National Circle of Judges. The evaluation will be delivered in writing and will be offered anonymously.