2026 GUIDELINES AND SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS 

Welcome! We’re excited to have piqued your interest in Young Minnesota Playwrights (“YMP”). In 2026, we will select and develop six original one-act plays by writers in Minnesota high schools. On June 27, 2026, the six plays will be performed at Park Square Theatre in Downtown Saint Paul. Below are the eligibility requirements and submission guidelines for your consideration. If you have questions, please email us at info@youngMNplaywrights.org. 

Eligibility Requirements 

  • Playwrights who submit materials as described below must be students enrolled in grade 9-12 at a public, charter, or private high school in Minnesota.

  • Submission must include a completed TEACHER RECOMMENDATION FORM from a current theatre or English teacher regarding the playwright submitting their play. 

  • Submission must include a STUDENT PROFILE AND PLAY SUBMISSION FORM completed by the playwright.

Submission Guidelines

All materials must be submitted electronically as typed, 12pt font, double spaced with one-inch margins. The cover page must include the title, playwright contact information, and date of submission. 

  • Submit an original 10-15 minute one-act play (maximum 15 pages of dialogue) on any subject you chose, with up to four (4) characters. 

  • Include in your submission, a character breakdown with a brief description of each, including age, gender and ethnic identification if necessary. 

  • Include a one to three sentence description of your play. 

OR 

  • Submit a synopsis of the play you intend to write (up to six pages) that includes a description of your story and a character break-down using the criteria above. 

  • Submit up to three pages of dialogue. 

Submission Deadline is January 15, 2026.

Click Here to Submit Your Play!

Participation Requirements 

If your play is one of those selected for the 2026 Competition and Production you will be required to: 

  • Work on revising your play with the mentorship and guidance of a theatre professional from January 2026 to May 2026. 

○ Meet virtually (Zoom, Google Meet) once per month, or more, as agreed upon with your mentor. 

○ Maintain the play requirements as outlined in Submission Guidelines. 

  • Attend at least one rehearsal at Park Square Theatre in downtown St. Paul during the week of June 21, 2026. Playwrights can attend as many rehearsals of their play as they like. 

  • Attend a dinner and the dress rehearsal of your play (and others selected) on Friday June 26 from approximately 4pm to 9pm at Park Square Theatre. 

  • Attend the performance on Saturday June 27, 2026 and post performance events from approximately 1pm to 10pm. (Dinner will be provided) 

  • Provide your own transportation to all events. 

  • Provide oral and written feedback to YMP and Park Square Theatre.