Photo Features: (L/R) Elaina Walton, Desiree Montes*, Renata Eastlick* in Apologies to Lorraine Hansberry (You Too, August Wilson) (2022) | * = Member of Actors’ Equity Association (AEA)
New Play Commission Program at Orlando Shakes
Who: Orlando Shakes is a prominent theater company based in Orlando, Florida. Renowned for its classical and contemporary productions, the company is committed to fostering creativity and innovation in the performing arts.
What: The New Play Commission Program is a recently launched initiative by Orlando Shakes designed to nurture and develop new plays by prominent and emerging Playwrights in the American Theatre. Finding our generation’s next Shakespeare. The program aims to identify and support playwrights in creating original works, providing them with resources, guidance, and opportunities to bring their scripts to life.
Why: The program was created to address the need for fresh, original content in the theater industry and to support emerging and established playwrights. By investing in new works, Orlando Shakes hopes to diversify the theatrical landscape, give voice to underrepresented stories, and continue its tradition of excellence in the arts.
How: Orlando Shakes will select playwrights through a rigorous review process. The program will provide workshops, staged readings, and potentially full productions, allowing playwrights to develop their work in a supportive and collaborative environment and seek national acclaim for Orlando Shakes.