Project looking for the next great Wisconsin playwright

Submissions of original, full-length plays are being accepted for the Wisconsin Wrights New Play Project, a joint initiative of the University of Wisconsin Division of Continuing Studies, the University Theater and the Madison Repertory Theater created to foster the development of new works by Wisconsin playwrights.

The “Wisconsin Wrights” opportunity follows in the footsteps of past continuing studies programs striving to integrate the diverse resources of UW–Madison and the surrounding area.

A panel of eight judges, led by Bradley Whitford, an Emmy-award winning actor for his role on the TV series, the “West Wing,” will select three plays for further development from the submissions.

The winning plays will be featured as part of the University Theatre’s summer season. Additionally, the top playwrights will receive the possibility of partnering with a stage director and dramaturge who will work with the finalists to develop each piece through workshops, providing an opportunity for the expansion and exercise of the playwriting craft, exploration of characters and constructive critique by caring, invested artists.

Two of the plays will move from a weeklong workshop into a public staged reading in University Theatre’s Hemsley Theatre. The third play will receive three weeks of workshop and rehearsal, followed by a public performance in the theatre. Each of the three finalists will also be awarded a one-week residency at Edenfred Mansion in Madison. Finally, the Madison Repertory Theatre will select one of the three works for further development and performance in the 2007 Madison New Play Festival.

Entries are due Jan. 15, 2007 to Sarah Marty of the Division of Continuing Studies.

Offering educational programs and services grounded in the rich intellectual and professional resources of UW–Madison’s faculty and staff, the Division of Continuing Studies facilitates outreach educational opportunities in the schools and colleges of the university. While the division plays many roles in offering and supporting outreach opportunities, the overarching purpose is to connect the campus and the community of lifelong learners around the state.