one act play contest

One-Act Playwriting Contest

For High School Students (Grades 9–12)

The One-Act Playwriting Contest celebrates young writers’ creativity, originality, and storytelling through the art of theatre. Students are invited to submit original one-act plays for a chance to have their work produced and performed live by student and community actors.

The Top 10 plays will be cast, rehearsed, and performed in a live showcase event.

LIMITED TO THE FIRST 50 SUBMISSIONS!

Who Can Enter:

• Open to all students currently enrolled in grades 9–12 at a high school, homeschool, or equivalent program.
• Students may submit individually; co-authored plays (up to 2 writers) are allowed but will be judged as one entry.

Residency:

• Open to students attending schools in all Prince William County and  adjacent counties.

Original Work:

• Submissions must be the student’s own original, unpublished work.
• Adaptations of copyrighted material are not permitted.
• Works generated or written by AI tools are not eligible. Note: All submissions will go through an AI Checker.

Number of Entries:

• Each student may submit one (1) play.

Genre & Theme:

• Open theme — drama, comedy, historical, mystery, etc.
• Scripts must be appropriate for a school audience (no explicit language, excessive violence, cursing, or mature content).

Length:

• Must be a one-act play, approximately 10–15 minutes in performance time (roughly 8–10 pages, standard format).

Cast Size:

• No more than 7 characters.

Setting & Technical Limits:

• Simple settings only with minimal technical requirements.
• Plays should be producible on a basic stage with limited set changes.

Format:

• Include title page with:
  • Play title
  • Student’s name, grade, and school
  • Contact email and phone (for coordinator use only)
• Typed, double-spaced, 12-point standard font (e.g., Times New Roman).
• Include page numbers.

• Deadline: December 31, 2025
• How to Submit: admin@gemtheaterproductions.org

• File Format: PDF only.

• Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

AGE APPROPRIATE CONTENT ONLY

Each play will be evaluated by a panel of theatre educators, writers, and directors based on:

1. Originality & Creativity – unique voice and fresh ideas
2. Story Structure – clear beginning, middle, and end
3. Character Development – believable, engaging characters
4. Dialogue – authentic, purposeful writing
5. Stageability – feasibility of live performance
6. Emotional or Artistic Impact – resonance and audience engagement

• Top 5 Finalists:
  • Will have their plays cast, rehearsed, and performed live at the One-Act Play Showcase on March 21, 2026 at the A.J. Ferlazzo Auditorium
  • Writers will be invited to participate in rehearsals and may provide input during the creative process.

For more information or submission questions, contact:

GEM Theater Productions
Email: admin@gemtheaterproductions.org