Original Works

Productions eligible to be considered for the awards of “Best Original Script” must meet the following criteria:

• The script must have been produced by a theatre organization in Shelby County, unless approved by the Ostrander Director
  1. Production spaces are not merely limited to a “theatre” space but may include any “found space” a company is able to obtain for use. The space must be safe and easily accessible for both actors and audience to meet.
• For a new play to be eligible, its text must:
  1. Be in written form at the beginning of rehearsals for the production that will be judged. Alterations made in the script after the beginning of rehearsals will not disqualify the script from consideration, provided the alterations are not substantial.
  2. Have a unifying principle. Thus, a collection of One Act plays would clearly need to have a central theme to be considered by the judges.
  3. Not have been published prior to the production of the text.
• To be considered for “best original work,” a completed script must be sent to the Ostrander Director by closing of the production.
• For a new play to be eligible, the production must:
  1. strive to create a sense of place, character, and atmosphere. It is not expected that the production will feature elaborate sets, costumes, or lighting – only what is needed to bring the playwright’s text to life.
• If the production is a musical:
  1. The music and lyrics must all be original.
  2. The book must be an original script or an adaptation related specifically for the company or show production.
• The following are not eligible for an award:
  1. A musical review of previously produced songs
  2. A staged reading