Writers' Guidelines

New Plays specializes in plays for young audiences (pre-school through middle and high school) and books for teachers using the arts in education. The plays are primarily for teens and adults to perform for children.

We are small by choice, and add only a few new titles each year. I look for good writing, strong characterization, well-developed themes, honesty and integrity, plays that challenge both performers and young people. I look for plays that have substance, but are not didactic. I stay away from plays that pound specific issues, such as drug abuse or teen pregnancy, and I look for material that sounds like it has been written by a playwright, not a guidance counselor.

New Plays seeks to offer a balance of musicals, straight plays, adaptations, contemporary material, large casts and small ones, plays for younger or older audiences. Length and cast size may vary widely--most plays are between 40 and 90 minutes in length. One person plays are hard to market, and so are epics. Adaptations must remain true to the original (I'm not a fan of fractured fairy tales) and stand on their own as plays. I do not publish "duplicate" titles--for instance, I already have an excellent adaptation of the Just So Stories and am not looking for another. Reading our catalog and newsletters and looking at some of our scripts will give you the best sense of our profile. Our on-line catalog is at www.newplaysforchildren.com.

All plays to be considered for publication must have been successfully produced for their intended audience, directed by someone other than the author. A simple cover letter with a production history, and perhaps a program or review, is appropriate. Multiple submissions are acceptable; and should be so noted in your cover letter.

Your play (and please send only one at a time) will be returned to you if you enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope. If you do not want it back, send a self addressed card or first class envelope for acknowledgement and comments. I do read everything, but be patient--it may take several months.

And good luck to you and your writing!