Austin Playhouse invites playwrights from across Texas to submit their work for consideration in our 2026 Festival of New Texas Plays. This festival celebrates the vibrant storytelling and diverse voices of Texas playwrights, showcasing new works that reflect the rich cultural landscape of our state. Austin Playhouse is committed to fostering new theatrical voices and providing a platform for emerging playwrights. We look forward to discovering compelling stories that reflect the unique perspectives and narratives of Texas.

 

ELIGIBILITY

• Submissions are open to playwrights currently residing in Texas.

• Plays must be original, unpublished works.

• Plays which have previously received up to two public readings are acceptable.

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WINNING SELECTIONS
All submissions will be blind-reviewed by a panel of theatre professionals. Up to 3 entries will be selected as finalists and presented in rehearsed readings at Austin Playhouse from August 14-16, 2026.  The finalists will be notified during July 2026 and announced on our website by July 21, 2026.

• Winning entries will receive a staged reading. Playwright must be available to attend the reading. Austin Playhouse will engage the cast and director. Each play will receive at least two rehearsals.

• Winning entries must grant Austin Playhouse Right of First Refusal to announce their intent to produce the first professional production of this work within one calendar year.

• Playwrights agree to keep Austin Playhouse informed of additional development opportunities for the winning play (workshops, readings) within that same calendar year.

• Playwrights are responsible for supplying updated and corrected copies of their script to Austin Playhouse.

• Plays not following the guidelines listed above will not be considered.

 

The submission period is now open. Only the first 100 submissions will be accepted. The submission period ends May 22, 2026, or when 100 qualifying scripts have been received.