The Schreiber Shorts

Our annual production of fully designed and staged short plays, the Schreiber Shorts, was born of our commitment to developing new creative voices, which we believe animate the craft of theatre. Each year, our Studio presents a curated evening of original short plays by emerging and established playwrights. The Shorts’ theme changes annually, with 2026’s plays exploring what happens In the End . . . even when the end is just the beginning.

Because we believe that fresh voices keep the theatre vital, we welcome submissions from novice and experienced playwrights alike. To submit a play for consideration, click here. We encourage you to submit your play as soon as possible. The earlier you submit, the more time and opportunity there will be for evaluation by our selection committee. Each year, all playwrights will be informed whether or not their play was selected by May 15th.

Plays are evaluated primarily on their artistry, originality and connection to the Schreiber Shorts theme for that year. We are particularly interested in work that provides meaningful opportunities for the Studio’s diverse acting community.

A strong submission should engage with the annual theme while offering compelling characters, distinctive perspectives and opportunities for actors to create meaningful performances.

Playwrights whose work is selected for the Schreiber Shorts receive a $75 stipend and a fully staged production of their short play at T. Schreiber Studio.

Selected plays receive professional direction, actors from the Studio, and set, costume and lighting design. Playwrights also have the opportunity to collaborate with the director of their work and receive complimentary seats to the performance.

The Schreiber Shorts provide playwrights with an opportunity to see their original work move from the page to a fully realised live theatre production.