The National Theater Project Creation & Touring Grant Program, administered by the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA), is designed to provide financial support for the creation and touring of artist-led, ensemble, devised theater projects across the United States and its territories. This program not only offers funding but also fosters a collaborative network of theaters, presenters, and ensembles that work together to promote the funded projects and advance the field of theater. The grants are intended to support both the development of new works and their subsequent touring, ensuring that these projects reach diverse audiences.
The primary purpose of the National Theater Project is to support the creation of innovative theatrical works that reflect the cultural and aesthetic diversities of contemporary theater. The program encourages projects that demonstrate meaningful partnerships with presenters and producers, as well as those that have the potential to engage audiences through their originality and relevance. The initiative aims to counteract structural inequities in the arts by prioritizing projects that include historically marginalized voices and perspectives.
Funding through the National Theater Project is allocated for the development of new works, costs associated with establishing a touring plan, and subsidies for the presentation of the work. While the specific size of the grant is not mentioned, it is important to note that no matching funds are required. The program supports U.S.-based theater ensembles and individual artists who have identified collaborators, with a preference for projects that are within two years of being ready to tour at the time of the award.
Eligibility for the grant is limited to U.S.-based theater ensembles and individual artists with nonprofit status or a contract with a nonprofit fiscal agent. Each ensemble or artist may submit only one application per year. Projects must have a committed U.S.-based development partner and should be in the development phase for at least three to six months post-award. Preference is given to projects that have at least one interested presenting partner and to returning artists who have completed their previous NTP-supported presentations.
The application process requires applicants to fulfill specific submission requirements, including a detailed project description and a viable plan for touring. Evaluation criteria for the grant include the project's potential for cultural impact, the strength of partnerships, and the ability to engage diverse audiences. Funded projects are expected to complete an evaluation within one month of their premiere, as outlined in the grant contract.
The deadline for applications is set for October 10, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the NEFA website for more information and to ensure they meet all requirements before submitting their proposals. The program is accepting applications and aims to support a wide range of artistic endeavors that contribute to the evolving landscape of theater in the United States.
