A workshop and showcase of the work of student and professional Black and Latino playwrights, conducted by professional guest directors/ artists

September 13-19, 2010

Staged Readings

September 17, 18, 19

MISSION

The mission of Texas State University’s Black and Latino Playwrights Conference is to study the craft, to nurture the playwright, and to celebrate the work.

DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM

The Department of Theatre ad Dance annually sponsors a Black and Latino Playwrights Conference that includes professional guest directors and actors, auditions, 5 days of open rehearsals, workshops, conference papers, and in-class presentations by professional guest artists, culminating with staged readings open to the campus and community.

OBJECTIVES

• To provide Texas State University students majoring in theatre with the opportunity to work with professionals for a hands-on week-long lab that includes the collaborative process of “finding a play” in rehearsals, culminating with a public staged reading.
• To showcase the work of Black and Latino playwrights from across the country.
• To annually lend an ear to new voices and help writers, in collaboration with directors, actors, and dramaturges, shape their stories and hone their craft in an environment that allows the writer to explore and grow and learn fearlessly.
• To share the plays with the campus and community in staged readings for audiences followed by discussion and/or questions and answers.

GIDELINES FOR SUBMISSIONS OF SCRIPTS

1. Only unproduced and unpublished scripts are eligible for consideration.
2. The scripts must be written by a Black or Latino playwright.
3. The submission must include a synopsis and character list.
4. The playwrights are expected to attend the rehearsals and at least one of the staged readings
5. Only scripts submitted prior to the deadline will be considered.
6. Playwrights from across the country may submit scripts.
7. Manuscripts must be typed in the standard play format ad must include contact information.
8. Include a stamped self-addressed envelope if you wish your manuscript returned.

CALL FOR WORKSHOPS AND/ OR CONFERENCE PAPER PROPOSALS

1. Send Workshop proposal addressing playwriting, producing, and publishing.
2. Send Conference papers (20 minutes) on Black and Latino playwrights and their work—historical and/ or critical.

GUEST ARTISTS

1. Housing:  The University provides housing for all guest artists and directors from out of town.
2. Stipends:  The selected playwrights receive a $1000 stipend.
3. Travel Expenses:  Airfare or mileage is covered by the university

EVENTS

1. Staged Readings
• Friday 9/17 7:30pm
• Saturday 9/18 2:00pm and 7:30pm
• Sunday 9/19 2:00pm

      2. Talk back sessions with guest playwrights and artists

      3. Panel discussions and conference paper presentations

      4. Open rehearsals: Monday-Friday 6-10pm

DEADLINE FOR THE SUBMISSION OF SCRIPTS AND CONFERENCE PAPERS OR WORKSHOP PROPOSALS

The deadline for submission of scripts is on April 15th.  A script postmarked by the deadline date is acceptable.  Play scripts may be delivered by regular mail, in person, or e-mail.  By June 15th, notification is sent to the authors of the selected works and to all who submitted scripts.  Deadlines are the same for workshop ad conference paper proposals.

SEND MANUSCRIPTS TO:

Department of Theatre and Dance

Texas State University – San Marcos

601 University Drive

San Marcos, TX 78666

Attn:  Black & Latino Playwrights

Or email to:  EL18@txstate.edu