NEW PLAYS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
A development workshop series devoted to increasing the number of
quality scripts featuring fighting roles for women.

2008-9 season of NPDP is funded by a generous grant from The Saints

Currently in development:

Scripts selected for NPDP 2008

Last Daughter of Oedipus by Jennifer Mickelson
The Double by Barbara Lhota

 

Upcoming Public Readings:

 

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Last Daughter of Oedipus by Jennifer Mickelson

3:00 PM - Prop Theatre - 3502 N Elston, just south of Addison

Don't miss the first public reading of The Last Daughter of Oedipus.

A moderated talkback and reception will follow.

 

November 15, 2008:

The Double by BWB Artistic Associate Barbara Lhota

ONE DAY ONLY at Prop Thtr (3502 N. Elston, Chicago)

Misunderstandings and mistaken identities abound in this fast-paced comedy, loosely based on Cyrano and set in the golden age of Hollywood.

After the reading, please stay for the talkback and reception!  Your feedback is deeply appreciated.

 

 

New Plays Development Program Details:

SCRIPTS ACCEPTED: Throughout the year. Please note - we are not considering musical submissions at this time.

SELECTIONS ANNOUNCED: Rolling intervals, 2 to 3 times per year

Playwrights selected for the New Play Development Program will receive a set of three readings to facilitate the development of their script. Each play will be assigned a director who will take part in the development process from the start. All readings and moderated talk backs are videotaped and given to the playwright to aid with rewrites.

The first reading is internal and is attended by company members and the director; the playwright is invited but not sponsored. The second reading is by invitation and is attended by company members, the director, industry professionals and other invited guests; the playwright is invited but not sponsored. The final reading is an advertised public reading with one choreographed fight and a reception following the moderated talk back; the playwright's travel expenses will be sponsored up to $400 to attend. The playwright is given approximately two months between drafts for revisions with a schedule provided at the time of selection.

BACKGROUND: Several scripts have completed the New Play Development Program since its inception giving playwrights an opportunity to develop their scripts in partnership with an ensemble of trained actor combatants. After completing the series R.L. Nesvet's "The Girl in the Iron Mask" was selected for full production in Babes With Blades 2006-2007 season and was produced at the Raven Theatre, March and April 2007.

FEEDBACK: "I benefitted greatly from the experience with your company's play development program. As you know I've been involved with the Pirates Anne and Mary for over 30 years. I feel that the play, read so wonderfully by our group, came the closest to an authentic expression of their story." - Sandra Riley, Author of "Sisters of the Sea"

Got a script we should see? Want more info?  Contact newplays@BabesWithBlades.org!