Join any writers group and eventually it'll dawn on you that playwrights are very thin on the ground, which leads one to think it might be an avenue worth exploring.
Anyway, as a previous unsuccessful contestant in the Boyle Arts Festival poetry competition, I was sent the following -
We are inviting submissions from writers with a link to County Roscommon (however tenuous that may be to - we reserve the right to use this detail for advertising/promotional purposes).
· Submitted one act plays must not exceed 15 minutes in length.
A play should have a maximum of 4 cast members. You have 15 minutes in which to establish characters and to move the drama on
If you enter this competition you must commit to performing your play if selected.
The performance date is 31st July 2010. Once a script has been selected for performance in competition, the writers/directors will be asked to agree in writing to going ahead
· You will provide your own props (please keep to a minimum) and direct your own cast. Lighting (minimal) will be provided. Note: There will be rehearsal time available on the day but only 5 minute set up and take down between performances.
Only one entry will be accepted per person - entry fee €10
Printed copies (two please) on loose numbered sheets of A4 paper with no binding or stapling must be sent to the address below accompanied by the entry form and a brief synopsis of script and summary of characters
All submissions must be received by 5pm on 15th June 2010. In choosing the 5 shortlisted plays the panel will consider the originality of the idea, the writer's ability and the play’s suitability for performance. On the night of the performance, the winning play will be chosen based on votes from the audience and the judging panel.
Strangely their website still has details of the 2009 festival but hopefully it will be updated soon. No mention of the poetry competition in their communique either
County Roscommon? In Canada? Only Ireland you say? Mores the pity! I guess I could transplant myself there for the summer stock theatre happening if they want talent they have to pay for it. Is Roscommon a happening place theatrically speaking? I shall have to look into this group. HOw much is the proffered stipend and is it union scale? Hope this isnt someone's idea of a sick joke, I hope they do mean business. doesn't sound like it. What? No poetry contest? Not very bardic of them. I shall take a winkle and check them out.
ReplyDeleteHi Chic, why would it be a sick joke? They're a very respected festival and its quite an honour to be shortlisted in their poetry competition. I'm sure further details will be announced shortly.
ReplyDeleteMaybe if you dig into your family history, you'll find someone from Strokestown or Tulsk?