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FLYING START: CALL FOR PROPOSALS

Deadline to Apply: October 31, 2023 (11:59PM)

DESCRIPTION

Flying Start is a two-year program designed for an underrepresented, early-career playwright or devisor(s) ready to take their script to the next level. Those selected receive a commission, dramaturgical and workshop development opportunities that lead to a world premiere production of the theatrical piece in Touchstone’s mainstage season.

The Flying Start program is divided into two phases. In phase one, the focus is on script development and dramaturgy which includes workshops with professional actors and ongoing mentorship during the writing process. In phase two, the play is fully realized onstage in a professional production.

 

WHO CAN APPLY

 

Playwrights with: Creators with:
    • A completed first draft of either a full length script or a one act of at least 60 mins in length.
    • A completed first draft of a collective creation, devised work, or collaboration of at least 60 min in length
    • An example of this could be a devised piece that has a combination of text and movement or a combination of whatever your disciplines are.
    • If you think it’s theatrical (intended for the stage), we want to hear from you.

 

ELIGIBILITY

  • We’re working to prioritize marginalized voices across the full spectrum of diversity. With that in mind, this call is for artists who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit), Black, and/or person of colour, D/deaf, Hard of Hearing, living with a disability, neurodiverse, and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and anyone who identifies as an underrepresented artist.
  • Must be a resident of British Columbia.
  • Scripts/creations must be unpublished and not fully previously produced on stage.
  • A suggested maximum of 10 artists per proposal which would include cast and collaborators. (For example, could be a cast of 6 + 4 designers)
  • Playwrights/Creators should be early career. We are defining early-career as someone who has developed their craft to a high standard but not had substantial or numerous professionally produced works (this can be assessed on a case by case basis).
  • Must be able to meet key dates (see below).

 

COMPENSATION | SUPPORT | RESOURCES

  • A total commission/royalty of $6000 for the playwright/creator(s).
  • Writing desk residency space at Touchstone Theatre’s office located at The Post at 750.
  • Research and development processes, with subsequent workshops with professional artists.
  • Ongoing dramaturgical support and mentorship by Touchstone’s Artistic Associate, Daniela Atiencia with consultation available from Artistic Director, Roy Surette and incoming AD.
  • A professional production of your piece produced by Touchstone in its 2024-2025 season.

 

KEY DATES

  • DEADLINE TO APPLY: 31  October, 2023 (11:59PM)

  • Chosen script/proposal will be jury selected by early-Feb 2024.
  • Extensive R&D and dramaturgical development starting Spring 2024. Dates flexible and to be determined with artist(s).
  • In person week-long workshop to revolve around artist’s needs to be determined in Spring 2024.
  • Production with Touchstone for 2024-2025 season – exact dates TBC.

 

HOW TO APPLY

 

Playwrights Creators

In a single PDF please send:

    • Artist CV
    • Letter (or 3 min video) of interest sharing why you think Flying Start would be a good fit for you and your artistry.
    • Copy of your script
    • Additional materials you feel support your work (optional)

In a single PDF (if applicable) please send:

    • CV of artists who are key to the project
    • Letter (or 3 min video) of interest sharing why you think Flying Start would be a good fit for you and your artistry.
    • Copy of your script and any supplementary materials that will help us understand the structure of your show including project description, images, sound, text, video.

 

Please send your materials to Daniela Atiencia: associatead@touchstonetheatre.com with subject line [First Name Last Name – Flying Start Proposal]

** If these options do not meet your access needs please get in touch with Daniela Atiencia at associatead@touchstonetheatre.com to discuss alternative options. 

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Still have questions?
  • Still unsure whether you should apply?
  • Need support or guidance about the best way to present your materials?
  • Would you like to talk through your application with someone?
  • Are you new to applications like these?

No problem! We will work with you to best support the vision of your work and integrate it into your proposal in a way that feels genuine and authentic to your practice and access needs.

Reach out to Daniela at associatead@touchstonetheatre.com – she’ll be happy to support you.