Where to look for places to submit plays
If you’re an emerging playwright, finding places to submit your work can feel almost as challenging as writing the play itself. The good news is that opportunities exist in many forms: theaters, playwriting competitions, festivals, readings, agents, and publishers.
The challenge is finding legitimate opportunities that are actually worth your time.
» Where Should You Look?
A good starting point is Play Submissions Helper, a resource designed to help playwrights find submission opportunities in one place. Instead of relying on random searches or social-media posts, you can use a dedicated resource to discover possibilities and then investigate each opportunity further.
You should also check the websites of theaters, festivals, competitions, agents, and publishers directly. If an opportunity interests you, always verify that it appears on an organization’s official website.
» How Do You Know If an Opportunity Is Legitimate?
Before sending your play, do a little detective work.
One of the biggest red flags is a lack of information. A legitimate organization should make it reasonably clear who they are, what they’re looking for, and how writers can contact them.
Be particularly cautious when a listing:
- Provides no contact information
- Gives little or no information about the organization
- Makes vague promises about publication, production, or representation
- Pressures you to submit or pay immediately
- Doesn't clearly explain its submission requirements
If you can’t figure out who is behind an opportunity or how to contact them, that’s a good reason to stop and investigate before submitting.
» Don’t Submit Everywhere—Submit Strategically
Finding opportunities isn’t about sending your play to as many places as possible. It’s about finding legitimate opportunities that are appropriate for your work.
Start with a trusted resource such as Play Submissions Helper, make a shortlist, and then research each opportunity before submitting.
A few extra minutes of research can save you hours of wasted effort—and help make sure your play lands with people who are genuinely looking for new work.