NEW YORK ITC

 INTERNATIONAL THEATER SCRIPT COMPETITION 

Playwright Script Competition

First Prize:

The winning script will receive a fully produced production in New York City, running for three performances at the Hudson Guild Theater in Manhattan, the heart of the theater world.

The production will be part of The New York Theater Festival (NYTF), the largest and one of the most prestigious theater festivals in the U.S. Participation in the festival also gives the winner an additional opportunity to win cash prizes totaling $8,000, offered by the NYTF competition.

Whether your submission is a play or musical, ITC will hire the cast and crew, organize and manage rehearsals, and run the shows at the Hudson Guild Theater. ITC will also cover the cost of rehearsal spaces, as well as the filming of one performance and all other associated production costs.

If the winner is unable to attend the production during the NYTF in New York, they will receive a filmed coverage of one performance.

Additional Prizes:

  • Second Prize: $1,000
  • Third Prize: $500
  • 9 Finalists: Will also be recognized.
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Why Enter?

This is an incredible opportunity for playwrights around the world to showcase their work. The ITC provides a platform for your play or musical to be produced in New York, with the possibility of exposure to producers interested in a longer run of the production.

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How It Works:

The competition will be judged by a select panel of New York City theater professionals. A panelist will read, evaluate, write a review, and judge your submission. The management team will select the winners based on all the reviews.

The First Place Winner will receive a full production, with the potential for a longer run based on industry interest.

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Submission Guidelines:

  • Script Format: All scripts must be submitted in PDF format.
  • Language: All scripts must be submitted in English.
  • Musicals: Submit a PDF of the libretto, along with three sample songs (you may record with a basic setup, such as using a phone, but more professional recordings with multiple singers are encouraged). Judges will only need to hear sample songs, so recording quality is not crucial.
  • Duration: Submissions must be between 30 to 90 minutes in length.
  • Casting: The winning script will be produced with a maximum of 6 actors/singers. If your script requires more than 6 characters, actors/singers may be asked to play multiple roles.
  • Musical Score: The score must be able to be performed by piano alone, as only a pianist hired by ITC will play the score during the production. No additional musicians are permitted.
  • Costumes: No elaborate costumes will be included. If your script requires elaborate costumes, adaptations should be made so that performers can wear contemporary clothing.
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Feedback and Evaluation:

All submissions will receive:

  • A written evaluation and review from the judges.
  • Advice on how to improve your script.

You will receive feedback within 3 months of your submission.

Head of the Judging Panel

Suzanna Bowling
Suzanna Bowling is the co-owner and publisher of The Times Square Chronicles (T2Conline.com), a widely-read publication with a daily reach of approximately 73,000 readers worldwide. A well-known theater and musical critic, Suzanna reviews an impressive 250+ productions annually, covering Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off-Broadway shows.

In addition to her work as a critic, Suzanna is passionate about helping playwrights take their work to the next level. She works closely with emerging writers to secure publicity, introductions to theater companies, and other opportunities. She has successfully helped playwrights secure grants, agents, managers, and even deals with regional theaters. One of the plays she championed was signed to perform on a cruise line—an achievement for a first-time playwright.

Suzanna is proud to serve as the Head of the Critic Panel for the International Theater Competition (ITC), where she is dedicated to discovering new voices in theater. A former actress, Suzanna has performed in a wide range of productions, including film, TV, cabaret, opera, and theater. Her performances include appearances at the New Orleans Jazz Festival, The United Nations, and Carnegie Hall.

In addition to her work in theater, Suzanna is developing a screenplay and a TV show with her late mentor, Arthur Herzog. She also has a forthcoming book on child abuse, loss, and grief. A proud member of the Drama Desk and the Outer Critics Circle, Suzanna was also a nominator for the Drama Desk Awards.

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Important Dates:

  • Submission Deadline: December 25, 2025
  • Winners Announcement: December 31, 2025
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Participation Fee:

A $175 participation fee is required after you complete your submission.

Don’t miss this opportunity to have your play or musical professionally produced in New York City!

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To submit your script and take part in this incredible competition, see the link below.

To Submit your work, there is a participation fee of $175 which you will pay after you complete your submission.
Submissions Due Date is December 25, 2024.