The Baltimore Playwrights Festival: Production Guidelines



Playwright, Director, and Producer Guidelines

Producing a new play is a collaborative effort. The playwright, director, and producing theatre all play an important part in creating a fully realized production. To ensure excellence in the play, and to create an atmosphere of understanding and cooperation, the Board of the Baltimore Playwright's Festival (BPF) recommends the playwright, director, and producer apply these guidelines.

Section I: Playwrights

  • The playwright will receive sole credit for writing the show.
  • After the play is selected, and the playwright has approved the theatre and director, the play may not be withdrawn for any reason.
  • The playwright is strongly encouraged to include in the program on any subsequent productions 'This play was first presented by the Baltimore Playwright's Festival, at [Theatre name] in [Year]."
  • The playwright should be involved in the casting of the show, but the director makes all final casting decisions.
  • The playwright should consider any changes the director suggests.

Section II: Directors

  • The director understands that this is a collaborative effort with the playwright.
  • No changes may be made to the script without permission of the playwright.
  • The director will consider the playwright's vision for the play, as well as any notes the playwright might have.
  • The director should be the sole person to give cast and crew notes. Producers and playwrights should give any notes regarding the production to the director.

Section II:I Theatres

  • The theatre should include the following on all posters, advertisements, and programs "Produced in association with the Baltimore Playwrights Festival" (or similar).
  • The theatre should include in all programs any information that is deemed essential by the BPF Board of Directors.
  • After play selection is finalized, the theatre may not switch playwrights or plays.
  • The theater should appoint an individual as the play's producer to serve as the point of contact for the playwright and director.
  • The theatre agrees to pay all costs and other incidental expenses (e.g. script copies) associated with the production.
  • The theatre agrees to work in concert with the BPF Publicist to promote its production.