National Centre for New Musicals Submission Year 3

National Centre for New Musicals

Year 3 Submission Form
Thank you for submitting your work to the National Centre for New Musicals at Theatre Aquarius. We’re thrilled to consider your project!

To ensure a fair process, our selection process has two rounds. In round one, all submissions are reviewed anonymously: we remove names from applications before sharing them with our adjudicators. Please ensure that your attached writing sample is free of any names, watermarks, or identifying information. If your project advances to round two, your details will be shared with the adjudicators.

We ask each team to submit only one piece and avoid using copyrighted materials. Before submitting, please take a moment to read and sign the Application Agreement below, which outlines the NCNM program timeline, funding, and expectations.

*Please be aware that the application does not automatically save and any progress will be lost if you close it or return later. Should you wish to type your long form answers and copy and paste them into the application, please download the application document HERE*

We look forward to receiving your submission by March 17, 2026, and sincerely appreciate your contribution to the world of new musicals!
Writing Team Information

Please select one writing team representative to submit on behalf of your piece.
How many writing team members are on your team?*
Writing Team Member 1

(Team Representative)
Name of Writer #1*

First NameLast Name
Writer #1 Email*
example@example.com
Writer #1 Location - Where are you currently located/based?*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityProvince

Postal Code
Writer #1 Location - Where are you from originally (if different from above)?

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityProvince

Postal Code
She/her/hersHe/him/hisThey/them/theirsOther
If you selected other, please specify your preferred pronouns:
We recognize the importance of inclusion and self-identification. If you would like to self-identify, please let us know below:
Please note that this is an optional field
Writer #1 Role - What is your role on the writing team?*
(Composer, book-writer, lyricist...)
YesNo
YesNo
I acknowledge that I am a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or that I have an eligible Canadian work permit.
- Writing Team Member 2
- Name of Writer #2 *
  
  First NameLast Name
- Writer #2 Email*
  example@example.com
- Writer #2 Location - Where are you currently located/based?*
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- Writer #2 Location - Where are you from originally (if different from above)?
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- She/her/hersHe/him/hisThey/them/theirsOther
- If you selected other, please specify your preferred pronouns:
- We recognize the importance of inclusion and self-identification. If you would like to self-identify, please let us know below:
  Please note that this is an optional field
- Writer #2 Role - What is your role on the writing team?*
  (Composer, book-writer, lyricist...)
- YesNo
- YesNo
- I acknowledge that I am a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or that I have an eligible Canadian work permit
- Writing Team Member 3
- Name of Writer #3*
  
  First NameLast Name
- Writer #3 Email*
  example@example.com
- Writer #3 Location - Where are you currently located/based?*
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- Writer #3 Location - Where are you from originally (if different from above)?
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- She/her/hersHe/him/hisThey/them/theirsOther
- If you selected other, please specify your preferred pronouns:
- We recognize the importance of inclusion and self-identification. If you would like to self-identify, please let us know below:
  Please note that this is an optional field
- Writer #3 Role - What is your role on the writing team?*
  (Composer, book-writer, lyricist...)
- YesNo
- YesNo
- I acknowledge that I am a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or that I have an eligible Canadian work permit
- Writing Team Member 4
- Name of Writer #4 *
  
  First NameLast Name
- Writer #4 Email*
  example@example.com
- Writer #4 Location - Where are you currently located/based?*
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- Writer #4 Location - Where are you from originally (if different from above)?
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- She/her/hersHe/him/hisThey/them/theirsOther
- If you selected other, please specify your preferred pronouns:
- We recognize the importance of inclusion and self-identification. If you would like to self-identify, please let us know below:
  Please note that this is an optional field
- Writer #4 Role - What is your role on the writing team?*
  (Composer, book-writer, lyricist...)
- YesNo
- YesNo
- I acknowledge that I am a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or that I have an eligible Canadian work permit
- Writing Team Member 5
- Name of Writer #5 *
  
  First NameLast Name
- Writer #5 Email*
  example@example.com
- Writer #5 Location - Where are you currently located/based?*
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- Writer #5 Location - Where are you from originally (if different from above)?
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- She/her/hersHe/him/hisThey/them/theirsOther
- If you selected other, please specify your preferred pronouns:
- We recognize the importance of inclusion and self-identification. If you would like to self-identify, please let us know below:
  Please note that this is an optional field
- Writer #5 Role - What is your role on the writing team?*
  (Composer, book-writer, lyricist...)
- YesNo
- YesNo
- I acknowledge that I am a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or that I have an eligible Canadian work permit
- Writing Team Member 6
- Name of Writer #6 *
  
  First NameLast Name
- Writer #6 Email*
  example@example.com
- Writer #6 Location - Where are you currently located/based?*
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- Writer #6 Location - Where are you from originally (if different from above)?
  
  Street Address
  
  Street Address Line 2
  
  CityProvince
  
  Postal Code
- She/her/hersHe/him/hisThey/them/theirsOther
- If you selected other, please specify your preferred pronouns:
- We recognize the importance of inclusion and self-identification. If you would like to self-identify, please let us know below:
  Please note that this is an optional field
- Writer #6 Role - What is your role on the writing team?*
  (Composer, book-writer, lyricist...)
- YesNo
- YesNo
- I acknowledge that I am a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or that I have an eligible Canadian work permit
- Download the Application Questions:
  
  *Please be aware that the application does not automatically save and any progress will be lost if you close it or return later. Should you wish to type your long form answers and copy and paste them into the application, please download the application document HERE*
- Previous Development Information
  
  If you have questions about if your piece is eligible for NCNM, please email newmusicals@theatreaquarius.org before March 1, 2026.
- Has your piece been developed or commissioned through another theatre or development program, or have you received any grant funding? If so, please expand and list all previous development details. If not, please write "n/a"*
  
  0/150
- Has your piece had any workshops, presentations, or full productions? If so, please expand. If not, please write "n/a"*
  
  0/150
- I acknowledge that my piece is not currently being developed with another theatre or development program.
- NCNM Program Timeline Details
- I acknowledge and agree to the program timeline details.
- Program Timeline:
  
  Application Portal Open:
  
  February 17, 2026-March 17, 2026
  
  Selections:
  
  All participants will be notified in April 2026 and NCNM Year three selections will be chosen and contacted in May 2026.
  
  Program Phase 1
  
  Remote Development Program – Part-time, remote development for the Incubation and Development Stream Selections from July 2026-December 2026.
  
  Program Phase 2
  
  NCNM Creators Summit - Two weeks of in-person development in January 2027 for the Development Stream writing teams. Please note that availability in January 2027 is required for the Development Stream teams.
- NCNM Program Funding Information
- NCNM supports writers’ goals by funding resources to support the piece's development. It’s important to note that funds are not unlimited, and we will work together with participants to achieve project goals within a set budget. Writers will be compensated at the Playwrights Guild of Canada rates for any workshops. Travel expenses will be covered from each team’s allotted budget for in-person workshops or presentations, ensuring that artists do not have to pay out of pocket to attend.*
  
  I acknowledge and agree to NCNM's funding details.
- NCNM Logistical Information
- I acknowledge and agree to NCNM's logistical information.
- NCNM Program Expectations
- Please note: The NCNM program focuses on development through collaboration, with ongoing feedback and guidance provided by creative team members such as dramaturges and music supervisors, and the NCNM team. This program is designed to support and evolve your piece through guided remote support as your piece develops in Phase 1 and culminating at the in-person Creators Summit for the Development Stream in Phase 2, which consists of dedicated writing time, table reads, workshops, and presentations.*
  
  I acknowledge and agree to NCNM's program expectations.
- Select Your Stream
- NCNM has two program streams:
  
  The Development Stream:
  
  This stream is for projects with a developed or partially developed script and/or score, including those that have been previously presented. It is ideal for creators looking to refine and advance their work and continue writing.
  
  The Incubation Stream:
  
  This stream is perfect for early-stage projects still in the concept phase, with little to no script or music written. It is ideal for those with an idea or pitch that is ready to begin development.
  
  *Please note you can only submit one piece per year and you are allowed to resubmit a piece from the previous year*
- Please select if your project would fall under NCNM's Development Stream or Incubation Stream:*
  If you are unsure of where your piece lies, please email newmusicals@theatreaquarius.org prior to submitting it.
- Development Stream
  
  Project Information:
- 1. What is your musical's name? *
- 2. Please write a one-line "elevator pitch" on your show:*
- 3. Please write a brief paragraph description of your show*
  
  0/200
- 4. How far along is your project? Please briefly describe if you have a draft of a script/score or partial draft, if you have a book but no music, or music but no book...*
  
  0/100
- 5. What is your anticipated cast size?*
  If this is unclear in your current stage of development, please provide your max. anticipated number of actors
- 6. Do you anticipate using actor-musicians? If so, please expand:
  
  Please note this is optional.0/50
- 7. Are you looking to fill any roles on your writing team?
  
  Please note this is optional.0/50
- 8. Do you have anyone attached to your project on the creative team? Please list names and roles only (no bios). (Dramaturge, Director, Choreographer, Designers...)
  
  Please note this is optional.0/100
- 9. Does your piece have a visual identity? Do you have any graphic design or marketing elements developed? If so, please expand:
  
  Please note this is optional.0/100
- 10. Have you submitted this piece to NCNM before?*
- 11. What do you hope to gain creatively and developmentally through NCNM? What are your goals and how do you envision advancing your piece to the next stage of development?*
  
  0/200
- Writing & Audio Sample
- WRITING SAMPLE GUIDELINES
  
  Please submit an excerpt of your material. 1-2 scenes/songs (up to 15 pages total).
  
  Please remove names and identifiers from the attached sample, and use a minimum of 12pt font and 1 inch margins.
- The material is solely originalThe material is in the public domainOr the material is copyrighted, and I can provide a signed letter from the author and rights representative(s) stating all underlying rights have been secured.
- I have removed all identifiers such as names and watermarks from my writing sample, including on the title page so the team can review anonymously.My submission is no longer than 15 pages, including title pageI have used minimum 12 point font and minimum 1 inch marginsI have only submitted one piece this year per writing team. If more than one is submitted, only the first piece received will be considered.
- Writing Sample*
  
  An excerpt of your material. 1-2 scenes/songs (up to 15 pages total)
  Cancelof
- Audio Sample*
  
  1-2 song samples, if applicable. If songs are not recorded, upload 1-2 lyric sheets. If no music or lyrics have been written, please expand on the musical genre and tone you envision for your piece
  Cancelof
- Incubation Stream
  
  Project Information
- 1. What is your musical's name? *
- 2. Please write a one-line "elevator pitch" on your idea:*
- 3. Please expand on your pitch or idea in detail (What is your piece about?)*
  
  0/200
- 4. How far along is your project? Have you done any writing? Do you have any music?*
  
  0/100
- 5. What is your anticipated cast size? (Please estimate)*
  If this is unclear in your current stage of development, please provide your max. anticipated number of actors
- 6. Do you anticipate using actor-musicians? If so, please expand:
  Please note this is optional.
- 7. Are you looking to fill any roles on your writing team?
  Please note this is optional.
- 8. Do you have anyone attached to your project on the creative team? (Dramaturge, Director, Choreographer, Designers...)
  Please note this is optional.
- 9. Does your piece have a visual identity? Do you have any graphic design or marketing elements developed? If so, please expand:
  Please note this is optional.
- 10. Have you submitted this piece to NCNM before?*
- 11. What do you hope to gain creatively and developmentally through NCNM? What are your goals and how do you envision advancing your piece to the next stage of development?*
  
  0/200
- Writing & Audio Description
- WRITING DESCRIPTION GUIDELINES
  
  Please submit an excerpt of your material if you have begun writing. If scenes/songs have not been written as you are in the idea stage, please expand on your concept, plot description, and the writing style you envision for your piece. Maximum 3 pages for the writing description/sample.
  
  AUDIO DESCRIPTION GUIDELINES
  
  Please submit 1-2 audio samples or 1-2 lyric sheets if you have begun writing. If songs have not been written, please expand on your concept and the music style you envision for your piece. Maximum 2 pages for the music description file.
  
  Please remove names and identifiers from the attached writing sample, and use a minimum of 12pt font and 1 inch margins.
- The material is solely originalThe material is in the public domainOr the material is copyrighted, and I can provide a signed letter from the author and rights representative(s) stating all underlying rights have been secured.
- I have removed all identifiers such as names from my writing sample/description, including on the title page so the team can review anonymously.My writing description is no longer than 3 pages, including title page.My audio description is maximum 2 pages long.I have used minimum 12 point font and minimum 1 inch margins.I have only submitted one piece this year per writing team. If more than one is submitted, only the first piece received will be considered.
- Writing Sample/Writing Description*
  
  An excerpt of your material or description. If scenes have not been written, please expand on your concept and the writing style you envision for your piece. Maximum 3 pages for Incubation Stream.
  Cancelof
- Audio Sample/Audio Description*
  
  1-2 song samples, if applicable. If songs are not recorded, upload 1-2 lyric sheets. If no music or lyrics have been written for Incubation steam, please expand on the musical genre and tone you envision for your piece (maximum 2 page description).
  Cancelof
- NCNM Application Agreement
- I confirm I have read the agreement.
- By signing below, you agree to the terms of the NCNM Application Agreement. (To sign, simply click and drag your mouse to draw.)*
  
  Powered by Jotform SignClear
  Please only have one team member sign on behalf of the entire team.
- Name of Signing Applicant*
  
  First NameLast Name
- Date Submitted and Signed*
  
  MonthDayYear
  Date
- Please note:
  
  Should this form be inaccessible to you in any way, please contact us at newmusicals@theatreaquarius.org. Thank you so much for your submission.
- Should be Empty:

National Centre for New Musicals

Writing Team Information

Writing Team Member 1

Writing Team Member 2

Writing Team Member 3

Writing Team Member 4

Writing Team Member 5

Writing Team Member 6

Previous Development Information

NCNM Program Timeline Details

Program Timeline:

Application Portal Open:

Selections:

Program Phase 1

NCNM Program Funding Information

NCNM Logistical Information

NCNM Program Expectations

Select Your Stream

The Development Stream:

The Incubation Stream:

Development Stream

Writing & Audio Sample

Incubation Stream

Writing & Audio Description

NCNM Application Agreement

Please note: