By 1812Blockhouse
A platform for bold ideas and boundary-pushing creativity is once again taking center stage at the Renaissance Theatre. The Renaissance Performing Arts Association has officially opened submissions for the 2025–2026 Emerging Artists Festival, inviting a new generation of playwrights, composers, dancers, poets, and creatives to share their original works.
A Creative Launchpad: From Page to Performance
Launched in 2020 with support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Emerging Artists Festival has quickly become a recognized hub for developing new voices and stories. Far more than a showcase, it offers selected artists a week-long immersive experience, complete with rehearsals, collaboration with professional directors and actors, and an invaluable opportunity to receive real-time audience feedback during public staged readings.
Submissions Now Open Through April 11
Aspiring and established artists alike are encouraged to submit plays, musicals, or screenplays by the April deadline. The Renaissance invites creators from diverse backgrounds to take this opportunity to experiment, explore, and elevate their work in a supportive setting. Full submission guidelines and the application portal can be found at rentickets.org/emerging-artists.
The Workshop Process: Building New Works Together
Each selected piece undergoes a focused two-night rehearsal period, culminating in a third-night staged reading in front of a live audience. These performances not only help artists test and refine their work but also encourage meaningful dialogue through audience Q&A sessions.
In addition to this development experience, each chosen artist receives a $500 award and housing accommodations, ensuring they can fully engage with the festival without financial barriers.
Save the Dates: 2026 Public Readings Announced
Audiences will have three chances to experience these dynamic new works and support emerging talent:
- Friday, January 9, 2026 – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday, January 14, 2026 – 7:30 PM
- Saturday, January 17, 2026 – 7:30 PM
All staged readings will take place at the Renaissance Theatre, with tickets available closer to the event.
Amplifying New Voices, One Story at a Time
Michael Thomas, Founder of the Emerging Artists Program and Artistic Director Emeritus, reflected on the festival’s impact:
“The Emerging Artists Festival has grown into an internationally recognized program that continues to amplify diverse voices and fresh perspectives. This is a space where artists can experiment, collaborate, and refine their work in a supportive environment.”
His vision continues to drive the festival’s mission: nurturing creativity, encouraging exploration, and elevating the next generation of storytellers.
Join the Movement
As the Renaissance Performing Arts Association looks ahead to another vibrant season, the call is clear: if you have a story to tell, a melody to share, or a voice that deserves to be heard—now is your time.
Submit your work by April 11 and be part of a movement that’s shaping the future of the arts—one original work at a time.
Source: Renaissance Performing Arts Association; Image by HeungSoon from Pixabay
Be sure to turn on the sound!
