New Works of Merit Playwriting Contest

is accepting scripts through June 30, 2009 for new works that:

1) Enhance self-realization

2) Support peace and social justice

3) Foster new understanding of minority issues that focus on racial, ethnic and gender discrimination both in the United States and abroad

4) Empower youth to build healthy inner foundations

5) Educate to gain further insight into healthy social/emotional living

6) Shed new light on religious, spiritual, and cultural differences and issues

7) Build respect for cultural expression and identity in a world that is experiencing rapid globalization

8) Explore the widening gap between the values this country was founded on and the values we present to the world today.

As a direct result of the New Works of Merit Playwriting Contests:

“Arkadelphia” by Brett Williams was published in Best American Short Plays by
Applause Books.

“He Came Home One Day While I Was Washing Dishes” by Christine Rusch was
published in Best American Short Plays by Applause Books.

2004 contest winner, Rudy Gray, is now a Resident Playwright of 13th Street
Repertory Company-NYC

“Conversation with a Kleagle” by Rudy Gray was produced twice in NYC
Feb 16, 2006 – Apr 7, 2006 and also Feb 6, 2009 – Mar 29, 2009

“Ruby's Story” by Ron Osborne was produced in NYC May 13, 2004 - July 3, 2004
and will be produced again June 12, 2009 – July 19, 2009.

“Interview” by Valerie Killigrew, was produced in NYC Nov 2 – Dec 2, 2006.

“Cry Wolf” by Deborah Mulhall was produced in NYC Oct 7 – Nov 27, 2004.

“Shades” by Paula J. Caplan received a free development workshop
June 28-July 2, 2004.

Eleven finalists and five scripts that were not finalists received a free reading.

Since January 2002, Sandra Nordgren, the founder of the contest, has been responsible for the offering of over 150 readings, 36 productions, 16 development workshops, and two theater playwriting residencies, all in New York City at no cost to the playwright.

As writers, we have been given a precious gift. Let us use that gift to create powerful, heartfelt new works that not only entertain, but also educate, enlighten and uplift humanity.

We look forward to receiving your script!

Sincerely,
Merit Theater and Film Group, Inc.
The Literary Staff
New Works of Merit Playwriting Contest

To visit website to get application, please click this post's title.