JOB INFORMATION
The VSA Playwright Discovery Program Competition provides a unique opportunity for students with disabilities to showcase their creativity and share their personal experiences through the art of playwriting. Organized by VSA, an international organization dedicated to promoting arts and disability, this competition invites students to submit ten-minute scripts that delve into various themes, including the disability experience. Scripts can take the form of plays, screenplays, or musical theater and may explore realistic, fictional, or abstract narratives.
The deadline for script submissions typically falls in January, and the application process opens in October, giving students ample time to develop their ideas and craft their scripts. Importantly, there is no fee required to enter the competition, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all aspiring playwrights.
The VSA Playwright Discovery Program Competition seeks to empower students with disabilities by providing them with recognition and opportunities for professional development. One winner or a group of winners will be selected to participate in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival, a prestigious event in the performing arts.
As participants, the winners will have the chance to engage in professional development activities, receive guidance and support in further developing their scripts, and access valuable workshops and networking opportunities. This experience not only helps students enhance their writing skills but also nurtures their artistic growth and fosters connections within the theater community.
Collaboration is encouraged in this competition. While students may submit individual scripts, they also have the option to collaborate in groups of up to five members. It is essential, however, that at least one member of the group has a disability, ensuring diverse perspectives and authentic representation within the submitted works.
The VSA Playwright Discovery Program Competition welcomes submissions from both US and international students between the ages of 14 and 18. This inclusivity allows for a rich exchange of stories and experiences across different cultural backgrounds. It is a celebration of diversity and a platform for young playwrights with disabilities to amplify their voices and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of theater.
The VSA Playwright Discovery Program Competition offers students with disabilities an exceptional opportunity to explore their personal experiences through playwriting. With the prospect of participating in professional development activities and being part of the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival, winners of this competition gain valuable exposure, mentorship, and support for their artistic endeavors. By fostering inclusivity and amplifying the voices of students with disabilities, this program showcases the transformative power of the arts and highlights the importance of diverse representation in the world of theater.
