A group of local theatre practitioners--stage directors, critics, playwrights and theatre educators-- will choose eight entries for the final anonymous selection of three by playwright Phil Olson of Minnesota, judge of the competition. They will have the opportunity to share their never-produced, one-act plays on May 7-8, 2010 with residents of central Illinois at the expanded Heartland Theatre. A local director and actors will be chosen to perform.

The winners also will have an opportunity to attend a three hour workshop moderated by Olson, be given a $150 honorarium to cover expenses and be special guests at a reception following the first night's performance that will be an opportunity for writers, critics, theatre artists and the general audience to interact.

"Happy Anniversary" is easy to say, even though the event to which the greeting refers is not always happy. At its most basic, an anniversary is just a day to remember. It might refer to the day, however many years ago, that somebody's beloved was dumped, a prodigal son reappeared, a tornado blew a whole town away, somebody won the lottery, or ignominious defeat trampled what seemed like certain victory. It might refer to a happy day, a sad day, or a day with shades of gray.

Mike Dobbins, artistic director of Heartland Theatre says, “We're looking for one-act plays that involve one of the above, for any anniversary you choose. Just make it a one-act anniversary to remember and send it our way.”

The deadline for submission of entries is March 15, 2010. There are no fees to enter. Complete entry requirements and a link to an entry form may be found here.

Heartland Theatre Company is dedicated to providing new playwrights with a forum for recognition in its theatre and community. The project is supported by well-known local benefactors, Paul and Sandra Harmon.

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