New stories emerge at theREP‘s annual NEXT ACT! New Play Summit where readings of new plays, workshops, film screenings, poetry slams and more take place. Every event is designed to shed light on new play development, the written and spoken word, and the power of storytelling.
This year, we’re excited to align the week-long summit with the world premiere production of the 2022 Summit-winning play “Three Mothers” by Ajene D. Washington.
“Three Mothers” is sponsored by Key Bank.
NEXT ACT! NEW PLAY SUMMIT 13 SCHEDULE — ALL AT theREP!
Monday, April 15
7:30 p.m. Main Reading
Enjoy a reading of the number one script that came through the submission process for the summit. Give feedback and weigh in on the script theREP might produce as a world premiere!
Wednesday, April 17
6-7 p.m. Page to Stage: “Consider the Sparrow”
Experience this 25-minute short film based on Suzanne Bradbeer’s play, “The God Game,” NEXT ACT!’s very first summit winner and world premiere production! There will be a panel discussion with the playwright, director and more following the film.
7:30 p.m. New Play Development & Workshop Performance of “Unreconciled” by Jay Sefton & Mark Basquill
The true story of an adolescent actor cast as Jesus in a school play directed by a parish priest. This 80-minute piece is a poignant, and at times, humorous exploration of family, place and the meaning of reconciliation.
Friday, April 19
5 p.m. NextGen Reading
You’ll listen to one short (30-60 minute) play by a playwright aged 19-25. This event is in collaboration with Temple University and UAlbany for this event.
7:30 p.m.
New Voices: Young Playwright Contest Readings
This event features readings of six or more ten-minute plays by Capital Region playwrights aged 13-19.
Saturday, April 20
4 p.m. First 15 Readings
Act as a literary manager to assess a submission using the same criteria as theREP’s reading committee uses.
7:30 p.m. Poetry Slam hosted by D. Colin
Surround yourself with the powerful artistry of guest slam poets including dynamic performer and Capital Region local D. Colin.