Chicago Writers’ Bloc 2026 10-Minute Play Contest
Official Rules, Terms, and Submission Guidelines
(Rules revised as of 4/15/26. Rules may be revised without notice at the discretion of the Chicago Writers’ Bloc)
Overview
Chicago Writers’ Bloc is pleased to announce its 10-Minute Play Contest, culminating in a live staged reading event on June 3rd in Chicago.
Seven selected plays will be presented in staged readings with actors provided by the playwrights. A panel of judges from the Chicago theater community will award First, Second, and Third Place honors.
Chicago Writers’ Bloc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting playwrights at all stages of their careers.
Key Dates
- Submissions Open: April 15
- Submission Deadline: May 10 (or when submission cap is reached)
- Finalists Notified: On or about May 17
- Event Date: June 3
Note: Submissions may close early if the maximum number of entries is reached.
Submission Guidelines
- Submission Fee: $15 per play
- Maximum Submissions: 50 total entries (first come, first served)
- Limit per Playwright: Up to 2 submissions per playwright
Format Requirements
- Length: 8–10 minutes (approximately 8–10 pages)
- File format: PDF preferred (Word documents accepted)
- Text should be 12-point, Times New Roman
- Author name may appear on the script (non-blind submission)
Content Requirements
- Maximum cast size: 4 performers
- Minimal technical requirements only:
- General stage wash lighting
- Music stands
- Microphones
Eligibility
- Open to playwrights in the Chicago area (must be able to attend and present work in person)
- Recommended age: 18+
Ineligible Submissions
- Past winning plays from previous Chicago Writers’ Bloc contests
Previously Produced Work
- Plays that have been previously produced, published, or workshopped ARE eligible
Selection Process
- All submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee
- Seven (7) plays will be selected for performance
- At least one alternate will also be selected
Judging & Awards
Judging Panel
A panel of three judges from the Chicago theater community will evaluate the performances. Judges may include:
- A scout affiliated with the Joseph Jefferson Awards
- An Artistic Director of a Chicago theater company
- A Founder or leader of a Chicago theater organization
(Final panel subject to confirmation)
Scoring Rubric (100 Points Total)
Each judge will score plays based on:
- Writing Quality (30 pts)
Structure, dialogue, clarity, and craft - Originality & Voice (20 pts)
Freshness of concept and distinctiveness - Emotional / Intellectual Impact (20 pts)
Engagement, resonance, and thematic depth - Performability (15 pts)
Suitability for staged reading format - Audience Engagement (15 pts)
Clarity, pacing, and live response
Awards
First Place
- $200 cash prize
- Featured promotion through Chicago Writers’ Bloc
- Consideration for future staged reading or festival inclusion
Second Place
- $100 cash prize
- Featured promotion
Third Place
- $50 cash prize
- Recognition and promotion
Optional Audience Choice Award
- Determined by audience ballot (if implemented)
- Winner announced following the event or shortly thereafter
Performance Requirements
Selected playwrights are responsible for:
- Casting their own actors
- Securing a director (optional: you may direct it yourself)
- Arranging rehearsal space (Note: if possible a 15-minute rehearsal time will be made available in the venue before the performance)
Performance Format
- Staged reading format
- Scripts in hand or placed on music stands. Printed scripts, and scripts on electronic devices are acceptable.
- Minimal staging
Time Expectations
- Plays must fall within the 8 to 10-minute range
- Timing will be evaluated during the selection process
- No strict enforcement of timing during performance, but significant deviations may affect judging
Rights & Permissions
- Playwrights retain full ownership and copyright of their work
- By submitting, playwrights grant Chicago Writers’ Bloc:
- Non-exclusive permission to present the play as part of the June 3 event
- Permission to use excerpts, including video excerpts, for promotional purposes
Submission Process
Submissions will be accepted via:
- Chicago Writers’ Bloc website submission form (details to be announced)
Refund Policy
- Submission fees are non-refundable
Code of Conduct
Chicago Writers’ Bloc is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful environment. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior may result in disqualification.
Contact
For questions, please contact:
Richard Norby: richard@milesnorthproductions.com