Have a script in progress that is bold, inclusive, and asks complex questions about the world we live in? Maybe it’s more at the beginning stages and you need some outside support to make that idea kernel pop into popcorn. Or perhaps you’ve got the idea and you’re applying for grants and think a letter or support from an established theatre company would really help you nail it.
If so, Downstage is interested in you and your work! The Simon Mallett New Work Program is offering support to artists regardless of experience who do work that lines up with Downstage’s mandate of creating conversations around social issues. We’re not looking to groom a play or playwright to be in one of our future seasons – we simply want more of this kind of theatre created and out there. Let’s open up lots of conversations that really reflect the true diversity of our communities, whether that’s our city of Calgary or an artist’s personal home community anywhere in Canada.
This program is named for our founding Artistic Director Simon Mallett, who started Downstage in 2004 while he was completing his MFA in Directing at the University of Calgary. Simon’s strong commitment to supporting new work was evident in his contributions as a programmer, director and dramaturge for many Downstage projects including the World Premiere of Sharon Pollock’s Man Out of Joint, three collaborative works by the Downstage Creation Ensemble (Bust, In the Wake, Good Fences), and new scripts by Albertan artists such as My Family and Other Endangered Species, Benefit and the new musical Crime Does Not Pay. We are delighted to continue this legacy and grateful for his generous gift that makes this new work development program possible.
Please visit www.downstage.ca/new-work for the online application form, a sample application, and details on what happens if your project is accepted.
While we accept ongoing submissions, we encourage you to submit for these dates for the timeliest response:
- Friday, October 6, 2017
- Friday, December 1, 2017
- Friday, March 2, 2018
- Friday, June 1, 2018
We will respond to all submissions within 2 weeks of the end of the period that you submitted in.
