2026 ECT SHORT PLAY FESTIVAL

Eligibility

• Anyone may submit.

• Only the first 100 submissions will be accepted.
  Currently, 178 submissions have been received

• There are no age, location, or experience restrictions.

Play Length

• Scripts must have a minimum running time of 10 minutes and a maximum of 15 minutes.

• Plays outside this range may not be considered.

Submission

• Each writer may submit a maximum of two (2) plays.

• Plays must be sent to eastcoasttheatregroup@gmail.com with the script(s) as attachments.

Originality & Previous Performance

• Scripts may be previously performed, published, or workshopped.

• Adaptations of other writers’ work will not be accepted.

Theme & Content

• There is no set theme.

• Content must be appropriate for audiences of all ages.

• Scripts should be either in PDF or Word format.

• East Coast Theatre reserves the right to decline works that include discriminatory, hateful, or unsafe material.

Casting Requirements

• Scripts should preferably require no more than four (4) actors.

• Plays with larger casts may be considered but are less likely to be selected.

• Preference will be given to plays consisting solely of adult (aged 16+) cast members. Plays requiring younger cast members may still be considered. 

Technical & Staging Requirements

• Plays must be suitable for a simple set.

• The simpler the technical requirements (set, lighting, sound), the better.

• Scripts requiring complex sets, special effects, or extensive technical cues may not be selected.

Performance Rights

• By submitting, the playwright grants East Coast Theatre the right to perform the play twice (one matinee and one evening performance).

• Performances are scheduled for 2 May 2026, subject to change.

• All rights remain with the playwright outside of these performances.

• ECT will request permission from each successfully selected writer to video record the performance. This will be shared with the writer. It may also be used for promotional purposes only with the writer’s approval.

Submission Deadline

• Entries close at 11:59pm (NZDT) on 31 January 2026.

• Late submissions will not be accepted.

Fees

• Submission is free.

What Writers Receive

• Selected writers will receive:

  • A public performance of their work

  • Credit in the program, ECT website and social media.

  • Participation in the festival

• Feedback may be provided at the discretion of East Coast Theatre but is not guaranteed.

• A prize of $US50 will be paid to the most popular play as voted for by the audiences by counting the combined votes across the performances.

Selection Process

• Scripts will be selected by East Coast Theatre.

• All decisions are final, and no correspondence will be entered into regarding selection outcomes.

Withdrawal or Script Changes

• Writers may withdraw their submission prior to the closing date.

• Once selected, no script changes may be made without prior approval from East Coast Theatre.

Code of Conduct

• East Coast Theatre is committed to creating a respectful, inclusive, and supportive environment.

• All participants are expected to behave professionally and respectfully throughout the process.