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| SPARC AND FIREHOUSE THEATRE NEW VOICES FOR THE THEATRE SPARC is proud to announce a pilot extension of its New Voices for the Theatre program in partnership with Firehouse Theatre. Launching alongside SPARC’s 37th annual New Voices program in summer 2027, the pilot will expand opportunities for select young Virginia playwrights through Firehouse’s Pop-Up Premiere initiative. New Voices for the Theatre is a statewide playwriting competition for Virginia students in grades 9–12. Students develop one-act plays with theater professionals and fellow young artists, culminating in staged readings at SPARC’s annual Festival of New Works. Following the festival, Firehouse Theatre will select two plays for a Pop-Up Premiere. The two playwrights will collaborate with professional directors, actors, and designers during an intensive one-week in-person workshop to shape an initial production concept and explore key technical and design elements. The process concludes with a semi-staged public presentation, allowing playwrights to experience their work with enhanced production elements and gather audience feedback. This two-part process will create a continuum of artistic development—from a student’s first workshop experience to a professionally supported, semi-staged public presentation. Through the growth of the New Voices program, SPARC and Firehouse Theatre reaffirm their shared commitment to highlighting bold new voices and investing in young artists. Click the New Voices button below to learn more information and submit one-act plays for consideration! |