Frequently asked questions for submissions to The Bill Cashmore Award: One Act Play Prize.
Q: What do I need to submit?
A: You will need to submit a complete script that is 30 minutes in length (equivalent to a maximum of 20 pages or minimum of 15 pages) as a PDF document. The script must be submitted in English.
Q: Why is the award only for young people aged 18 – 30?
A: The Bill Cashmore Award is presented as part of our Young Lyric Programme. The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has a longstanding commitment to young people and Young Lyric as a whole seeks to establish equality of opportunity for young people from all backgrounds, by accessing theatre to develop their creative, social, personal and economic potential. As such, the age range for the Bill Cashmore Award is 18-30.
Q: What if I turn 31 after I have submitted my script?
A: You are eligible so long as you are still aged 30 on the submission deadline date (23rd December 2024).
Q: Can the script be an adaptation or does it have to be an original idea?
A: The script must be a piece of new writing and not an adaptation of an existing story.
Q: Do we accept submissions for radio, TV, or film?
A: All submissions must be written for the stage.
Q: Can it be a musical or have music in it?
A: No, as the cast performing are not trained in musical theatre or as actor musicians.
Q: Are co-written or devised plays eligible?
A: No, submissions are only eligible if written by a single author.
Q: How do I submit my script?
A: Please fill out the form on the website and attach your script to apply.
Q: When is the deadline for the application?
A: Monday 23rd December 2024, 12pm – we will not accept any applications after this time.
Q: Can I submit my script if it’s incomplete?
A: We would ask for your script to be submitted as a full draft. This does not mean it will be the final draft or version of your play, but we ask for you to submit a full draft for us to read in the selection process.
Q: Can I resubmit a new draft of my play at a later date during the submission window?
A: No, we will only accept the first version of your script during the submission window, so please do not submit twice in this window.
Q: Will I be able to edit and redraft my script if my show is selected?
A: Yes, the winning scripts will receive notes for redrafts prior to rehearsals.
Q: Who is eligible?
A: Residents based in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) who are aged 18-30. We will ask for proof of age if your script is selected.
Q: How many characters should my script consist of?
A: The Lyric will provide a cast of five actors (aged 18 – 25) for your play, yet you can write for as many characters as you like, as the casting process can accommodate multi–rolling.
Q: Who will be reading my script?
A: Scripts will be read and shortlisted to 10 scripts by the Young Lyric Team. The shortlist will then be sent to a panel of the Lyric’s Artistic Associates, who will read and select the two winning scripts in consultation with the Lyric. The panel will offer feedback to all 10 shortlisted scripts.
Q: This is a paid opportunity, how much will I receive the commission?
A: If your script is selected for the award, you (as the writer) will be paid a fee of £3,734.87 (exclusive of royalties) for a 30 minute one act studio play. An additional small travel stipend will be made available for attendance in person as required.
Q: My script has been performed before as part of a festival or R&D, can I submit it?
A: Yes, however your script must not have been performed in front of a paid audience and the run must have been less than two performances.
Q: My script has been performed before to a small invited audience, can I submit it?
A: Yes, however your script must not have been performed in front of a paid audience and the run must have been less than two performances.
Q: When will the play be on?
A: The run of the play will take place in Autumn 2025 in our Studio Theatre at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre.
Q: Will I be involved in the creative process?
A: Yes, you will be invited to shape the artwork for marketing, be invited to parts of the rehearsal process, you will receive complimentary tickets to the performances, and will collaborate with members of the creative team who will be appointed by the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre. A small travel stipend will be made available as required.
Q: Are there any design parameters?
A: The winning scripts will be presented as a double bill in our Studio Theatre with a shared design in collaboration with a Wimbledon College of Arts, BA Theatre Design graduate. Due to the nature of our Studio, all plays will be staged with an ‘End on’ seating configuration.
Q: Can I submit multiple scripts?
A: No, you are limited to one entry.
Any further questions please email talentdevelopment@lyric.co.uk
