Submissions are closed.
Please check out our upcoming performances!
We are seeking proposals from playwrights, actors, and directors for theater pieces designed for video chat. We are specifically looking for work that engages with Zoom (or an equivalent platform) in an inventive and engaging way.
The performances will be livestreamed the last two Saturdays in May, with all ticket proceeds going to charity.
What we’re looking for
We're looking for proposals on two separate tracks.
1. The Classics, Reimagined
Here, we’re looking for actors and directors to propose a new take on an existing theatrical work. We’re looking for adaptations that are somehow amplified via the Zoom/Video medium.
For actors, we encourage you to think, explore, and propose roles and pieces in which you might never be cast in “traditional theatre,” where the Zoom medium opens up a world of possibilities for you.
For directors, we’d love proposals that employ the Zoom medium to empower your directorial genius to new and expanded heights.
For everyone, we ask that the piece either be in public domain or be a piece for which you can easily get (or already have) performance rights.
2. New (Short) Plays for Zoom
We’re also looking to fund 4-6 new, short pieces of theatre, specifically for the medium of video chat. By short, we’re asking 10-20 minutes. Playwrights, Deviser-Directors or Playwright-Hyphenated-Artists, this one’s for you.
In the 1930s and 40s, writers reached new audiences with radio drama—what is video drama?
Things To Keep in Mind
A strong proposal:
Uses the limitations and options of the video medium as a creative opportunity.
Doesn’t need to have all the details (casting, production team, full-concept), figured out but the more you know, the more you can sell us on your vision.
Feels like something you’d want to watch during this time.
Mixily Presents has three goals
Support Performers and Audiences in a time when theaters are closed due to COVID-19.
Explore Artistically the new medium of video chat for generating new content.
Fundraise for Charity. While accepted proposals will receive prize money and a stipend, 100% of ticket proceeds will be split between The Actors Fund and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.
Funding
One of the goals of this project is to financially support the arts, and we believe in paying artists. Each approved project will receive $1,500 to cover any production costs and compensate the artistic team.
Who we are
This project is a collaboration between tech wizards, event producers, and industry professionals who want to support the theatre community during an unprecedented and challenging time.
The primary sponsor is Mixily, a company created to help bring people together. In this moment, Mixily Presents is a way to continue that mission.
Andrew Badr is a computer programmer and software artist who has worked at a series of startups with the mission of bringing people together.
Daria Miyeko Marinelli is a playwright-producer. MFA in Playwriting: University of Texas at Austin. Most Recent Gig: Creative Consultant for Cirque du Soleil.
Harry Berberian is a fundraiser for a human services organization in NYC. He enjoys making-believe, connecting with Armenians over coffee and reading comic books.
Kevin Weatherman is the founder of Lever Health. He has seen over two hundred Broadway performances.
Timeline
Track 1: The Classics, Reimagined
Application Deadline
May 10, 6pm EST
Selection Announced
May 13
Rehearsals
May 19-22
Opening Night
Saturday, May 23, 8pm ET
Track 2: New Plays for Zoom
Application Deadline
May 17, 6pm EST
Selections Announced
May 21
Rehearsals
May 26-29
Opening Night
Saturday, May 30, 8pm ET
FAQ
Who can apply?
Anyone and Everyone! We expect successful proposals to come from applicants with significant experience in the theater, and we welcome all who are interested.
Who has final say in casting, directing, and producing?
You do. This is your show! We’re here to support, stream, and distribute your show to your (and our) audience.
Our hope/expectation is that you will apply with either your team signed on, or a strong path towards who you want and how you’re going to find them. While you’re in charge of your artistic team and vision, we’ll be here as support, to help you when you get stuck. As this is a new medium, we’re excited to figure out with you what theatrical producing looks like in a time of quarantine.
What is the rehearsal schedule?
We’re excited to air shows on Saturdays, and give you and your team Monday-Friday to prepare. If you think your piece would benefit from a different rehearsal schedule, please mention this in the final section of your application.
How many performances are planned?
Just one! We’re certainly open to continuing the project, but we’re starting here. We plan to record the performance for posterity.
What if quarantine has ended by the time of the performances?
Then we’ll have supported artists and put together a great performance anyway!
How will proposals be selected?
Proposals will be reviewed by a small panel of theater writers and producers. They’ll be looking for an exciting script, usage of the medium, and a promising team.
Who owns the rights to the proposals?
Creators retain all rights to their proposals. We will ask for non-exclusive rights to broadcast the performance and create promotional materials.
How much will tickets cost?
Tickets will be suggested donation, with a minimum of $1 and no maximum. All proceeds will go to charity.
Who are the sponsors of this project?
This project is a collaboration between a few friends crossing over the startup tech scene and the theater scene. The primary sponsor is Mixily, a company created to help bring people together. In the time of COVID-19, this is a way to continue that mission.
This is exciting! How can I follow along with the project, or attend a performance?
Sign up for our mailing list!
What’s your hashtag?
#mixilypresents