BOX OFFICE 800 657 7025

New Play Series

The Commonweal’s New Play program fosters the creation of original plays in collaboration with emerging and established playwrights. Through commissions and submissions, the Commonweal’s goal is to bring world premiere plays to our region.  

Commissions
The Commonweal invites playwrights to spend time with us in our community, during which time we work in a supportive, collaborative process to develop early drafts of plays. Playwrights with existing works in progress also work closely with company members as the work continues to be refined. When the drafts are ready, informal public readings provide an opportunity for dialogue to steer further development of the play. Promising scripts are given additional rehearsal and workshops. When the collaborative process yields a fully realized script, the play may be chosen to receive a full production at the Commonweal.

Applications are welcome year-round; invitations are extended beginning in November for the following calendar year. To be considered for a commission:

  • Submit a letter of inquiry, a letter of recommendation and your resume.
  • Be willing to spend up to 28 days during a six-month period in Lanesboro.
  • Have one completed full-length manuscript available.

Submissions
Previously unproduced scripts also are welcome. Applications are accepted year round; invitations to workshop are issued in August. To be considered for a submission:

  • Plays cannot have received a full production.
  • Submit synopsis, character breakdown, sample dialogue (10 pages), letter of reference.
  • No unsolicited full manuscripts accepted.