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submission information
Overview
The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival is a world-class, self-producing platform where authors, playwrights, musicians and artists from all over the globe showcase their work in Atlanta. The festival is supported by a 501(c)3 organization and is professionally operated and managed by Micah 6-8 Media, LLC.
The 2022 Atlanta Black Theatre Festival runs from Thu. 9/1/22 - Sun. 9/4/22 and will be held at the following locations:
- Special Events and Staged Readings will be held at the Host Hotel on Fri. 9/2/22.
- Full Performances will be held at the Southwest Arts Center on Sat. 9/3/22.
Submission can be placed in any one of these four categories:
- Full Perfomrance - Main Stage - SUBMISSIONS ARE CLOSED: Notifications will be sent out by March 10, 2022.
- Staged Readings of Original Works - SUBMISSIONS ARE CLOSED: Notifications will be sent out by March 10, 2022.
- Special Events - OPEN
- New Writers - OPEN
We aim to create and expand opportunities for artists of color to affordably produce and present their work to thousands of theatre and art lovers in person and digitally. We will happily consider all types of submissions; however, we especially seek cutting edge, original Afro-centric productions. We do NOT, however, exclude anyone based on race or ethnic origin.
Acceptance to the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival is highly competitive. Our audiences consist of producers, directors, artists and patrons from all over the world seeking unique yet quality artistic experiences. Please present your best possible, completed submission package for consideration.
COVID POLICY FOR ARTISTS ON STAGE OR PRESENTING
Please note: After carefully weighing in all considerations, professional training and risks, we will require ALL performers to provide proof of triple vaccination. This is becuase they will be performing unmasked. There are no exceptions to this policy. Please do not even ask. Thank you kindly for your understanding.
Criteria for Acceptance
All submissions are automatically considered for all categories. We'll contact you, if we feel you'd be better suited elsewhere for programming purposes. We receive an overwhelming number of submissions. Please read carefully. The point system outlined below is our scoring rubric and will help you assess your chances of being accepted.
Artistic Quality (60 points)
- Innovative and creative.
- Well developed plot and characters as submitted.
- Demonstrated ability to present quality artistic work with a bonafide commitment to diversity.
- Captivating title, intriguing synopsis and theme with high public appeal.
- Do the elements (ie., story, writing, actors' performance, stage management, set, props, direction, costumes, lighting and sound) work together to create a great theatrical experience.
Production Value (20 points)
- Low impact, minimalist set (ie, ease of load-in/strike/load-out).
- Total run time (w/o intermission) is compliant and within established guidelines and parameters.
Administrative Capability (20 points)
- Capacity to meet Festival objectives within the established structure and framework.
- The ability to exercise patience, flexibility and professionalism in a highly stressful environment.
- Evidence of the capacity to execute a production, meet deadlines and render an effective marketing plan for ticket sales and/or promotion.
NOTE: GMAIL SIGN-UP MAY BE REQUIRED TO ACCESS APPLICATION FORMS
Submission Categories
1. FULL PERFORMANCES
Festival Participation Fees: Covered by grants for 2022!
Submissions are being accepted to present high quality performances with low impact set requirements. All FP submissions are placed on the festival schedule based on the suitability of the performance for that date, time and setting and the availability of space.
Submissions from Outside the U.S.: If you are located outside of the United States, you are required to have a U. S. based Producer (individual or entity) with a U.S. bank account to act as your legal agent.
Criteria:
- Festival Participation Fees: Covered by grants for 2022!
- Max. Running Time: 90 mins. (no intermission, no exceptions)
- The submission must have been fully mounted with a history of at least two (2) performances in front of a live audience.
- Must submit a video of the full production including the curtain call. (Does not have to be professionally taped. Smart phone recordings are acceptable.)
- The play submitted must NOT have any performances scheduled in the state of Georgia in the same year of the festival.
- A high profile or celebrity headline is not required but strongly recommended.
Compensation/Consideration:
- Participation fees are waived for 2022 and covered by grant funding.
- Artists will be reimbursed for approved related travel if accepted in this category.
- Revenue can be generated with your branded merchandise (ie. CDs, DVDs, shirts, books, etc.) via the Festival Store.
- 50 complimentary tickets to your event will also be provided and can be bartered or sold at face value or used for sponsorships (up to $1750 value),
- The Festival sets admission prices and retains net admission revenues with the exception of the comp tickets allotted.
Completed Application Checklist:
- Completed Online Application
- YouTube or Vimeo Video link of Performance (Required)
- Script in standard industry format (at least the first 15 pages of dialogue in pdf).
- A $25 non-refundable application fee is accepted via a donation to: FRIENDS OF THE ABTF SUSTAINABILITY FUND.
- DEADLINE: FEB. 28, 2022 @ 11:59PM (EST)
2. STAGED READINGS OF ORIGINAL WORKS (SR)
We are seeking a selection of original scripts for stage, television, web series and screen in various stages of development. Work that has been produced can also be considered for this category. Actors are permitted to read from scripts while seated or standing. A writer's "talk back" is required.
This is a very popular event at the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival and an excellent opportunity to present your work in development for future production. Upon request, our staff of distinguish university professors, industry experts and award winning writers are always on hand to give valuable feedback and assistance. We are here to help you, however we can, tell your story.
Criteria for Staged Readings:
- Festival Participation Fees: $100 (However, a $50 grant supplement will be awarded to each accepted submission).
- Total Running Time: <75 mins. (no intermission)
- Staged Reading submissions with a running time of less than 35 minutes may be paired by the Festival and presented as a double feature.
- Maximum Cast/Crew Size: 10 (including the producer/writer)
Compensation:
- The Festival sets admission prices, if any, and retains all admission revenues.
- Artists are not compensated for this event.
- Revenue can be generated with your branded merchandise (ie. CDs, DVDs, shirts, books, etc.) via the Festival Store.
- Ten complimentary passes on the day of your event will also be provided and can be bartered or sold at face value for sponsorships,
Completed Application Checklist:
- Completed Online Application
- Video recorded LINK of your performance or presentation and password, if needed. (OPTIONAL, not required for consideration for Stages Readings)
- Script in standard industry format (at min. include the first 10 pages of dialogue in pdf).
- A non-refundable $25 application fee is acceptable via a donation to: FRIENDS OF THE ABTF SUSTAINABILITY FUND.
- DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 28, 2022 @ 11:59 (EST)
3. SPECIAL PERFORMANCES AND CALL FOR SPEAKERS (SE)
Open to All Artists and Facilitators:
- Creative Masterclass and Workshop Faciliators
- Acoustic Performers: Singer/Musicians or Bands
- Poets and Monologue Performances
- Comedians, Impersonators
- Dance or Physical Theatre Troupes
- Short Plays and Films
Criteria for Special Events:
- Running Time: 15 - 50 mins. (no intermission)
- Festival Participation Fee: Up to $40*
Compensation: Revenue can be generated with your merchandise sales (ie. CDs, DVDs, shirts, books, etc.) via the Festival Store. Up to ten complimentary passes on the day of your event will also be provided and can be bartered or sold at face value for sponsorships, The Festival sets admission prices, if any, and retains all admission revenues. Artists and presenters are not compensated for this event.
Completed Audition Checklist:
- Completed Online Application
- YouTube or Vimeo Video link of Performance
- A non-refundable application fee is acceptable in any amount via a donation to: FRIENDS OF THE ABTF SUSTAINABILITY FUND.
- DEADLINE: OPEN
4. NEW WRITERS: PAGE TO STAGE TO SCREEN
The ABTF is offering an online course to help develop writers outside of traditional academia. This online course traces a writer's journey from concept to the written words to its realization on the theatrical stage, and finally, to its cinematic interpretation.
This is a basic course for aspiring writers and a unique opportunity to receive coaching by people who understand the Black aesthetic of writing. The course includes fifteen lecture hours and one (one-on-one) lab/office hour. The objective is for each participant to either:
1. Complete one short script or
2. Further develop an existing script.
Upon successful completion, the participant is awarded a certificate and priority consideration for placement in the ABTF Staged Reading Series this fall. Due to the personalized structure of this course, we can only accept eight (8) participants.
- Online Course Dates: Saturdays, June 4 - July 9, 2022 (no class July 2nd)
- Time: 10am -1pm (ET)
- Tuition: $250 (Partial hardship scholarships are available for based on the availability of funding.)
The lead instructors are award-winning writers Jeanette Hill, Dr. Shirlene Holmes, Deitrah Taylor and Andre' Minkins.
Rolling Acceptance until May 6, 2022 or when the course is full. Please submit this application with a writing sample.
perks and benefits
WE ARE COMMITTED TO YOUR SUCCESS...
As a festival participant, we work hard to make sure you (and your cast) get the most out of this experience
*Festival Fees include:
- Venue Space Rental
- General Liability Insurance
- Overall Festival Marketing
- Front House Management
- Fees have been subsidized by grants for 2022.
Perks and Benefits: . The ABTF has: opened doors to many opportunities:
- Many shows have gone on to perform in New York (Off-Broadway), in other prestigious theatre houses, festivals, colleges, and universities.
- ABTF artists have received thousands of dollars in grant awards and writing residencies as a result of their recognition at the ABTF.
- Artists have acquired perpetual worldwide prestige and recognition as a participant in the ABTF;
- Showcase their work to other producers and industry representatives in attendance for bookings and tours;
- Enjoyed industry networking and professional development with the foremost game-changers in theatre and digital art producing;
- Gained tremendous exposure and grown their audience on a larger scale
- Received recognition and acknowledgment for authentic work.
YOUR COMMITMENT TO YOURSELF...
We'd love to get you started and we know you'll have a blast! First, we want to be sure you have realistic expectations and fully understand what it takes to participate in the ABTF.
We receive an overwhelming number of submissions. Please read everything carefully. Festival producing is not for everyone. Moreover, every festival is different in pace, format, culture, and temperament.
This can be a wonderful experience and a phenomenal opportunity to grow and expand. Consider this an investment in yourself; although, it is possible to cover related expenses and/or earn a profit with good old fashioned hard work and community support. But it's all up to you. Start planning now. Participation takes time, hard work money and dedication. Be sure to be realistic about your budget and time commitments.
It's never too early to begin planning. We suggest you consider attending the ABTF and/or submitting to categories other than the Full Performance category to familiarize yourself with the process, producers, and patrons. This will give you a 360-degree view of what to expect. It's also a great way to get plugged-in and network with other artists.
Although we are happy to share all the tools and best practices needed for a successful run, we have to caution you. Festival producing is not for everyone. It is fast-paced and can be very stressful.
Additionally, every festival is different in format and temperament. Just because you've attended and/or participated in one festival doesn't mean it will be the same. Only you know your management style, work ethic, or stress tolerance. Be HONEST with YOURSELF, ask QUESTIONS and do your resarch!
Hope to see you at the ABTF!
Updated 1/3/21
Testimonials
Sardia Robinson, Playwright/Actor
Winsphere Jones, Producer/Director
Sardia Robinson, Playwright/Actor
"The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival was the first Festival where I performed my show, and it was the best experience I ever had. Since performing there I've learned so much, Toni, the staff and crew was wonderful and was there when I needed or when I had any questions. I was there by myself and never felt that I was alone. I went on to
"The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival was the first Festival where I performed my show, and it was the best experience I ever had. Since performing there I've learned so much, Toni, the staff and crew was wonderful and was there when I needed or when I had any questions. I was there by myself and never felt that I was alone. I went on to perform a world tour! Telling stories is what I am about especially stories that need to be told. ABTF provides that platform and I am so grateful for that."
Kevvin Taylor, Producer/Director
Winsphere Jones, Producer/Director
Sardia Robinson, Playwright/Actor
"We're so grateful and honored to have our play recognized by such a prominent theatre festival. We made history by telling herstory! The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival is a powerhouse; a class-act! From moving main stage performances to magnetic master classes; from stimulating stage readings to splendid special events. The Atlanta Bl
"We're so grateful and honored to have our play recognized by such a prominent theatre festival. We made history by telling herstory! The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival is a powerhouse; a class-act! From moving main stage performances to magnetic master classes; from stimulating stage readings to splendid special events. The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival gives the next generation of theatre professionals a platform to share, connect and build.
The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival weaves a unique fabric of hope in Black Theatre! Bravo!"
Winsphere Jones, Producer/Director
Winsphere Jones, Producer/Director
Winsphere Jones, Producer/Director
"I truly see this festival becoming the ultimate place to see black theatre. The tightly bound doors when our stories were not told, now have a place to open the eyes of all ages. We are not monolithic, but we have shared the same struggle on stage and off. I have been privileged to produce, direct and act in this festival since 2013 and
"I truly see this festival becoming the ultimate place to see black theatre. The tightly bound doors when our stories were not told, now have a place to open the eyes of all ages. We are not monolithic, but we have shared the same struggle on stage and off. I have been privileged to produce, direct and act in this festival since 2013 and each year it gets better. The staff is truly committed to not only the preservation Black theatre, but raising the standards of excellence. This week of performers have truly given their hearts to theatre and the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival has led the way. "
more Testimonials
Sandra Seaton, Playwright
Roz Ayers-Williams, Playwright (In-Memoriam)
Roz Ayers-Williams, Playwright (In-Memoriam)
"I was thrilled and honored to have my work chosen for the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival. The materials, communication, and excellent website information were all testimonials to your extraordinary organizational skills. The reports of our cast, as well as other Festival attendees, all mentioned how beautifully coordinated everything was
"I was thrilled and honored to have my work chosen for the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival. The materials, communication, and excellent website information were all testimonials to your extraordinary organizational skills. The reports of our cast, as well as other Festival attendees, all mentioned how beautifully coordinated everything was. Your amazing vision as Producer and Artistic Director of the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival is truly impressive. Warm best wishes and thanks for all you do." - Sandra Seaton, Nationally acclaimed playwright and winner of the distinguished Mark Twain Award
Roz Ayers-Williams, Playwright (In-Memoriam)
Roz Ayers-Williams, Playwright (In-Memoriam)
Roz Ayers-Williams, Playwright (In-Memoriam)
"I’d like to once again thank you and the festival committee for the opportunity to be onstage as part of your awesome festival. I have had other works read or produced in past events, but none as prestigious or professionally conducted as yours. It pushed me to new heights, pulling in a top director and cast worthy of a full production
"I’d like to once again thank you and the festival committee for the opportunity to be onstage as part of your awesome festival. I have had other works read or produced in past events, but none as prestigious or professionally conducted as yours. It pushed me to new heights, pulling in a top director and cast worthy of a full production. And I enjoyed the experience immensely. ...All questions were answered, all problems were resolved cheerfully and efficiently. I enjoyed working with such pros." -Roz Ayers-Williams, Acclaimed playwright and winner of Black Women in Jazz Award for Playwriting; Former Senior Editor for Black Enterprise Magazine.
Alia Jones-Harvey, Broadway Producer
Roz Ayers-Williams, Playwright (In-Memoriam)
Alia Jones-Harvey, Broadway Producer
"I continue to reflect on the amazing weekend of theater you visioned and manifested in Atlanta! It is indeed a testament to your skills as a producer that such a magnificent event came into existence. Thank you for including me in it and reaching out to Spelman to be included. It was an excellent opportunity to share and learn." -Al
"I continue to reflect on the amazing weekend of theater you visioned and manifested in Atlanta! It is indeed a testament to your skills as a producer that such a magnificent event came into existence. Thank you for including me in it and reaching out to Spelman to be included. It was an excellent opportunity to share and learn." -Alia Jones-Harvey, Olivier Award winner, Tony Nominee and Acclaimed Broadway Producer (Broadway Producing Credits: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof starring James Earl Jones, Trip to Bountiful starring Cicely Tyson, Eclipsed starring Lupita Nyong'o)