Program Overview
Showcase your talent in this free playwriting competition for high schoolers (Grades 10-12). Develop creative skills, gain theater experience, and boost college applications.
# Young Playwrights Festival The **Young Playwrights Festival**, organized by **Young Playwrights Inc.**, is a prestigious and exciting opportunity for high school students passionate about the arts, particularly in playwriting and theater. This program invites students in grades 10-12 from across the United States to submit their original plays for a chance to see their work come to life through professional productions. The festival is free to participate in, making it an accessible and invaluable experience for aspiring playwrights to showcase their talent on a professional stage. ## Program Structure The **Young Playwrights Festival** is an in-person program designed to celebrate and nurture young talent in playwriting. The competition takes place over a defined timeline, with a submission period during which students can enter their original scripts. Once submissions close, a panel of theater professionals reviews the entries and selects winning plays based on creativity, originality, and dramatic impact. The winning playwrights are then invited to participate in the festival, where their plays are developed and produced by experienced directors, actors, and production teams. The event culminates in a live performance of the winning works in front of an audience, offering participants the rare opportunity to see their ideas translated from the page to the stage. ## What Students Experience Students participating in the **Young Playwrights Festival** gain hands-on experience in the world of theater and playwriting. The program provides a unique opportunity to: - Develop and refine their storytelling skills through the submission and revision process. - Work closely with industry professionals, including directors, dramaturgs, and actors, to bring their vision to life. - Gain insight into the collaborative nature of theater production. - Receive feedback and mentorship that helps them grow as writers and artists. - Witness their creative work performed on stage, an invaluable experience for any aspiring playwright. The festival is an immersive opportunity that fosters creativity, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the theater-making process. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participation in the **Young Playwrights Festival** demonstrates a commitment to creative writing and the arts, which can significantly strengthen a college application. It highlights a student’s ability to take initiative, think creatively, and collaborate with others—traits highly valued by admissions committees. Winning or participating in a program of this caliber also shows a dedication to honing one’s craft and a willingness to engage in professional-level artistic endeavors. Additionally, the experience provides a compelling story to include in application essays or interviews. ## Eligibility The **Young Playwrights Festival** is open to high school students in **grades 10-12** across the United States. Students must submit an original play to be considered for the competition. There are no fees to participate, ensuring accessibility for all eligible students. ## How to Participate Students interested in participating in the **Young Playwrights Festival** should prepare an original play to submit during the program’s open submission period. Detailed application instructions, including submission guidelines and deadlines, can be found on the official website of **Young Playwrights Inc.**. For more information and to apply, visit the [Young Playwrights Inc. website](#). Be sure to check the website regularly for updates on submission deadlines and program details. Don’t miss the chance to turn your creative ideas into a professionally produced play!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Young Playwrights Festival cost?
Young Playwrights Festival is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.
What is the application deadline for Young Playwrights Festival?
The application deadline is January 29, 2027 (deadline last verified July 4, 2026). Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.
Who is eligible for Young Playwrights Festival?
Young Playwrights Festival is open to high school students in grades 10–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.
Is Young Playwrights Festival online or in person?
Young Playwrights Festival is an in-person program based in New York, NY. Expect a time commitment of roughly 15 hours per week.
How do I apply to Young Playwrights Festival?
Apply directly through Young Playwrights Inc.'s official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.