Read and follow the instructions carefully prior to submitting your form:
Instructions:
We are thrilled to invite talented artists to submit their scripts for consideration in the Stargaze Theater Festival. This platform serves as an opportunity for you to showcase your work and gives you the chance to see your script brought to life by Austin-based directors, actors, and theater techs/managers.
- Submissions are open to Texas-based playwrights who currently reside in Texas.
- Scripts must be original, never having been produced before.
- Scripts should be between 15 and 20 pages, with an expected runtime of 15–20 minutes.
- Playwrights retain all rights to their work but agree to permit one performance run if selected for the festival in addition to the script being included in the Stargaze Anthology Publication.
- Writers may collaborate with directors throughout the production process, fostering dynamic partnerships.
- Star Bandit Foundation aims to uphold diversity in the scripts selected and encourages writers to reapply in future years if not selected.
Even if your script isn't chosen, we hope you'll remain engaged and join us in shaping the future of Austin theater!
Evaluation Criteria:
Our panel will evaluate submissions based on the following categories:
Story Quality (20 points)
- The setting and atmosphere are well-developed.
- Characters are original and experience development.
- Plot is engaging.
- Dialogue feels natural and authentic.
Creativity (5 points)
- Story has an imaginative and unique concept.
- Clichés are minimal.
- Unique perspectives.
- Inventive use of resources.
Genre (5 points)
- Genre Alignment.
- Thematic consistency.
- Innovative elements.
- Genre expectations.
Feasibility (10 points)
- Minimal set design.
- Achievable costume design.
- Execution feasibility.
- Budget considerations.
Each script will receive a score and feedback from our judges, providing valuable insights for future development.
Event Details:
- Event Name: Stargaze Theater Festival
- Event Type: Scriptwriting Contest
- Years Running: 3
- Event Dates: August 14-16 & 21-23, 2025
- Venue: Dougherty Arts Center
- Venue Address: 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
- Venue Capacity: 150 per night
- Scripts Selected: 5
- Notification Date: May 1, 2025
Contact & Social Media:
Starbandits.org
Facebook
Instagram
Youtube
LinkedIn
Awards & Prizes:
- All applicants will receive feedback from our panel.
- Selected scripts will be produced by local Austin directors, actors, and theater techs.
- Selected scripts will be included in the Stargaze Anthology publication.
- Playwrights of selected scripts will receive 1 complimentary ticket to Stargaze Theater Festival, on the night of their choice.
Note: This application does not include direct funding but offers the invaluable opportunity to see your script realized on stage.
Submission Requirements:
- Scripts must include a Characters List with short descriptions of each role.
- Scripts must be submitted in PDF format.
- Writers must complete the following application form in full.
Deadlines & Entry Fees:
| Deadlines |
Dates |
Entry Fee |
| Early Bird |
March 1 - 7 |
$25 |
| Standard |
March 8 - 31 |
$50 |
| Final |
April 1 - 15 |
$75 |
Proceeds from entry fees support the production of plays at the Stargaze Theater Festival. All fees are non-refundable.