Curtain Rising is a mini reading festival supporting the early-stage development of emerging playwrights whose work has never received a full production. The play being submitted must have had minimal development and must not have been developed through another festival or workshop in a producing capacity.

We seek innovative stories that might otherwise go untold due to barriers to access. NewYorkRep creates an inclusive platform for diverse voices, fostering dialogue on themes of alienation and reconciliation while empowering artists, building community, and centering work that inspires social change by illuminating our shared humanity. We believe that by engaging social and ethical questions through art, we can promote empathy, compassion, and inclusion.

Eligibility & Submission Rules (Summary):

Plays should explore social impact topics, reflecting personal or community experience.
Playwrights must be based in NYC and/or have reliable access to NYC (no housing or travel provided).
Plays (and plays with music) are eligible; musicals are not eligible.
One submission per playwright.
Submission is $15 and non refundable.

The contest is open to playwrights whose work has not been staged in a full production (including festival productions and one-act showcases presented as full productions).
The submitted play must also not have been staged in a full production.
Plays should not exceed 90 minutes in length.
Plays should not exceed six (6) characters.
Plays must align with NewYorkRep’s mission and values.

Awards & Benefits:

The selected playwright receives the opportunity to develop their play through an Equity 29-hour presentation with a professional creative team.
The selected playwright will receive the Curtain Rising Award.
Exposure to industry professionals with potential for future development.

Verification:
NewYorkRep reserves the right to verify eligibility and production history. Submissions found to be ineligible may be disqualified.

Submission is $15 and non refundable

If the fee is a barrier and for other assistance please email gm@newyorkrep.org.

2026 Curtain Rising Reading Festival