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"I'm most proud of the things that took me the most courage"
Jean Betts
Jean Betts
Actor Stephen Papps
Building on a dynamic 33 year history in which Playmarket has been instrumental in the development of the New Zealand play and playwrights, a programme has been developed which supports professional playwrights and script development initiatives, both within and outside our professional theatres nationally. We work towards ensuring that the future of writing for the stage in Aotearoa New Zealand is strong and vital, and that plays are at an optimum level of development going into production. Alongside our information and promotion services we also currently run the following script development initiatives:
Briefly:-
This is a straightforward resource open to anyone, and is often our first contact with new writers. Once we have received your script and assessment fee it will be sent to one of our assessors and returned to you within four weeks. (NB assessment is free to client playwrights)
We accept applications for development assistance from any New Zealand or resident playwright. However we are more likelty to support advanced scripts, especially from clients, that have a firm production date. (NB a playwright member is not the same thing as a Playmarket Client.)
To become a Playmarket Client you need to be invited to do so by the director. If you are interested, have had professional productions and feel you may be eligible, please enquire, and check out "Agency" in our menu for further details. (NB a playwright member is not the same thing as a Playmarket Client.)
We have an impressive number of competitions and opportunities for playwrights, some of which are indicated below. Please check out "Opportunities" on our menu above for full details and a current list, and also simply email us to receive monthly eBulletins keeping you in touch with news, articles and random events that may interest you - info@playmarket.org.nz.
Six plays by writers aged 16-24 are selected for workshops and presentations. In partnership with Auckland’s THE EDGE in 2006
Writer intensives for playwrights leading to playreading and workshop presentation opportunities, in partnership with major production houses in the four main centres.
A week of development opportunities for playwrights, and plays with significant professional potential.
Rehearsed public readings in Wellington for three new plays ready for production.
Readings, workshops and dramaturgical assistance for three new commissioned plays annually.
New Zealand's most prestigious playwriting award, recognising excellence in work by a significant emerging playwright.
Workshop and presentation of a play by a New Zealand representative.
A significant development opportunity for an emerging playwright to attend this international playwriting festival bi-annually.
Scriptlabs and workshops for new Maori and Pacific Island playwrights in partnership with Auckland City Council.
Incorporates a range of the above events activity in Auckland in association with The Edge, plus in partnerships in 2006: Flip the Script, Play Right, and Exploding the Page.