Ingram New Works Project FAQ
Are you looking for a specific type of play or playwright?
No, we look for exciting and inspiring plays with a dynamic voice, an interesting point of view, and a strong sense of narrative momentum. We are looking for a play script that is in progress. That progress can be an early unfinished draft, a few pages written with an outline and synopsis, or a fully completed first draft. Overall, we must comprehend the concept of the play and where the playwright intends to take the piece.
Can I submit more than one project?
No. We will only accept one submission per person.
Is there a submission fee?
No.
Do you accept plays that have already been developed?
Yes. We will accept a play already in very early development. However, we highly encourage brand new plays and early drafts to be submitted.
My play has received a reading at another theatre; can I continue to develop it in the Ingram New Works Lab?
No. The Ingram New Works Lab is not designed for plays that have already received development with other programs.
Can playwrights from outside of Nashville apply?
Absolutely. Housing, travel, and hospitality are provided to all Lab playwrights. Local playwrights are also strongly encouraged to apply.
Do I have to be in Nashville for the entire 2025-2026 season?
No. Each playwright selected will be chosen for one (1) on-site lab week.
The 2024-2025 Lab Weeks are as follows:
Lab 1: October 6-11, 2025
Lab 2: January 12-17, 2026
Lab 3: March 9-14, 2026
Do playwrights have to attend all dates?
No. We will focus on one play for each lab week. Playwrights will attend the lab week for their play. In addition, some Zoom/online workshops will take place.
What can I expect if I’m selected for the Ingram New Works lab?
Each playwright will be given the resources needed to work on their script and take it to the next level. Each play will be staffed with a director and dramaturg, and each play will be cast with actors. Before attending an in-person lab week, the playwright will take part in 1-2 Zoom readings and workshops. This will give the playwright time to make changes and re-writes before coming onsite for their lab week.
For lab week, playwrights arrive early in the week. There will be 3 to 5 lab sessions throughout the week catered to the needs of the playwright. We realize each play has specific needs, so time will be allowed for playwrights to do readings, work sessions, re-writes, dramaturgical work, and discussions. These sessions will include work with a director and dramaturg as well as professional actors from the Nashville region. The week will culminate in a reading.
In addition to Lab sessions, weeks in Nashville also include opportunities to experience our great city and connect with the larger community of artists in Nashville.
What materials do I need to send to apply?
Applicants must send the following:
A cover letter of intent introducing yourself and telling us why you would be a good fit for this program. You should also pitch your play in this letter, detailing why you want to develop this play now and your connection to the material.
A draft of the proposed play. Please keep in mind this can be any of the following:
An early, unfinished draft
A few pages written with an outline or synopsis
A completed first draft.
Overall, we must comprehend the overall concept of the play and where the playwright intends to take the piece.
A professional resume
A full-length sample play that best represents your work. Materials must be sent by using the form on our Applications page.
Do you accept musical submissions?
Yes, we are now accepting musical submissions for the 2025-2065 Season. If you are submitting a musical proposal, you should also include links to any early audio reference demos or recordings of your work.
Who reads the submissions?
Submissions are read by a combination of professional readers, community stakeholders, Ingram Lab alumni, and Nashville Rep artistic staff.
What happens after I submit?
You will be notified by email that we received your application. Finalists will be notified by email, and many finalists will be asked to take part in Zoom interviews. A public announcement of the 2025/26 Lab playwrights will be made in late July/early August.
What is the deadline for submissions?
The submission deadline is Friday, May 30 at 5pm CST.
What if my question isn’t answered in this FAQ?
Additional questions can be sent to Yolanda Treece, Artistic Associate at yolanda@nashvillerep.org