RETURNING REIMAGINED!
Created in 2016 and inspired by new play development programs across the country, New Voices aims to develop the next wave of American voices right here in Jacksonville. In previous years, the program selects 1-2 established OR aspiring playwrights to embark on a yearlong developmental journey and pairs them with mentors who help guide the process from conception to final draft. The program culminates in a fully mounted production of their new play.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take center stage, we’re reimagining New Voices! To continue this program, we are pivoting to a virtual process.
The first installment in this reimagined program is New Voices: Voices Unheard. We’ve selected 3 playwrights through a blind submission process to begin a 12 week development and writing journey. Through mentorship, workshopping, and writing sessions, our selected playwrights will be ready to rehearse and showcase their 15-20 minute short play that uplifts and highlights the voices of the unheard — whatever that may look like.
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THE PROCESS:

Virtual Workshops
Our playwrights will spend 6 weeks attending weekly virtual workshops on the journey of storytelling, led by our professional mentors.

Writing & Development
Our playwrights will develop and hone their concept and scripts based on instruction and feedback during the workshop process.

Mentorship
Every step of the way, our playwrights will be guided by industry professionals who are helping them take their play from page to stage.

Readings & Performance
Our playwrights will have the opportunity to get their scripts performance ready through readings, rehearsals, and work with actors.
FOLLOW THE JOURNEY
We'll be making updates to our Blog to feature news and information about the New Voices journey! Stay tuned.
MEET THE NEW VOICES!
We are so excited to introduce the three playwrights selected for this year's New Voices: Voices Unheard!
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Click the link below to be redirected to a blog post with their biographies!
Matt Mercurio
Chelsea Black
Ken Pedersen
MEET THE MENTORS!
We are so excited to introduce the three professional mentors that are working with our playwrights this year, guiding them from page to stage!​
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Click the link below to be redirected to a blog post with their biographies!
Arklow, Ireland
Dr. Nadia Ramoutar
PhD
Chicago, Illinois
Paul Oakley
Stovall
Jacksonville, Florida
Kelby Siddons