A Call for Plays! The 10-Minute Play Fest Approaches

By Ron Herman

Here’s wishing you Happy Holidays from the Actors Theater of Orcas Island. 2010 was a wonderful year for theater at the Grange. Now it’s time to look forward to 2011. One of the most anticipated events of the year is the Play Fest. So without further ado let’s put a call out to all playwrights to begin putting pen to paper . . . do people actually do that anymore? Regardless, it’s time to begin writing your best 10 Minute Play to be considered for production in the 2011 10 Minute Play Fest.

2011 will be the 6th Annual Play Fest which highlights the talents of local writers, actors, directors and stage crews. The Grange is a small intimate theater  with an ever growing following when the 10 Minute Play Fest takes the stage. This year will see the Play Fest expand to two weekends, the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May.

This past year saw seven plays produced, all written, directed and acted by local Orcas Island talent.  In addition to giving many actors their initial stage experience, the event is really a showcase for those brave enough to write a 10 Minute Play. With each Play Fest the process is reworked so that the experience will continue to be supportive for all involved.

As with the 5th Anniversary 10 Minute Play Fest this past May, Ron Herman, a local writer and actor will be coordinating the event. Once again we anticipate the production of seven new plays. We encourage anyone with the thought or desire to give it a go. We have a supportive group of experienced playwrights who will step forward to assist the first time writer. Also, guidelines and samples will be sent to each participant to ensure each has the appropriate information for submission.

All submitted scripts will be reviewed by a panel. Some improvements have been made to the review process to ensure the anonymity of the writers. Because of these changes, all playwrights are encouraged to contact Ron so that each playwright may receive the 2011 Play Fest Guidelines. Early submission is desirable so writers can receive feedback and make revisions if desired.  Submission deadline is February 28.  Rehearsals typically begin in early April.  Guidelines and samples of quality plays can be obtained by contacting Ron Herman at playfest@orcasactors.com or by phone at 831-234-4960.

Whether you are a seasoned playwright or someone with “no experience,” we’d love to see your work.  Questions? Call Ron!  Also, although we are now calling for scripts from Orcas Island writers, we also encourage any potential actor, director, stage hand or tech person to contact us.  No experience required.