INDIANA — Lack of financial resources is often the most daunting obstacle for new writers trying to bring fresh, innovative story ideas from the pages of their script to the stage.
For a few aspiring writers, OnyxFest 2023 — the first and only Indiana theater festival exclusively for African American playwrights — will cover all expenses required to bring scripts to life. Scripts will be accepted for consideration up to midnight Friday, March 10th.
This competition is designed to showcase the broad spectrum of stories that depict Black life and culture. Playwrights will receive royalties along with stipends to pay actors, directors, lighting assistants and sound technicians. The grant will include funds for set design, props, costume and makeup as well as the complete cost of theater rental for both rehearsal and performances.
Scripts should be submitted to https://go.iu.edu/4LMu. Entries will then be submitted to a jury of theater professionals who will read each and determine five winners. Winners will be notified in the first week of April. We will also communicate with those not chosen.
Entries must be original one-act plays — between 45 minutes and an hour in length. There may be no more than six characters per cast.
The scope of OnyxFest subject matter is broad. Writers should avoid stereotypes, degrading or disrespectful portrayals of Black life and culture, and gratuitous violence or sexual content.
Watch all six productions of last year’s OnyxFest at onyxfest.com. For more Information on this year’s festival, email onyxfestindy@gmail.com.