Next Stage Residency

2024 Applications
Open September 2023

THE NEXT STAGE RESIDENCY

The Drama League Directing Residencies are designed to support the interrogative process of a director creating theater or other work that includes live performance.  The residencies offer financial support for a developmental process, rehearsal and administrative space, dramaturgical/mentor support from The Drama League artistic staff, and the opportunity to present the findings of the process publicly.  The Drama League is not and will not be the producer of the project, nor of any public or private event in conjunction with this residency; the recipient is responsible for all production, contracting/hiring, or other needs in this regard.


The Next Stage Directing Residency supports early career or, in special cases, mid-career or established directors in exploring a work for possible production.  The residency supports the interrogative process; it offers a stipend to cover expenses related to the development of the work; thirty hours of rehearsal time to develop the project in real space; and a final open rehearsal or staged reading for a public audience.

Mariana Newhard and Lipica Shah in 2017 Next Stage Resident Director Kristin Marting's piece, Assembled Identities, by Kristin Marting created in collaboration with Purva Bedi and Mariana Newhard, in a performance at HERE Arts.

Residency Outline

Duration

30 Hours of Rehearsal in The Drama League Theater Center, NYC
Up to three additional hours for Open Rehearsal/Staged Reading

Frequency

Offered every year

Recipients

Two recipients each cycle

Stipend

$10,000
(can be paid directly or used for expenses)

Program Timeline

Additional Benefits

  • Access To Drama League Alumni Programming and Events
  • Lifetime Drama League Artistic Membership
  • VIP Pass to all publicly offered Drama League programming during Fellowship
Reading Cain-and-Abel-3-Photo-Scott-McCord
Alum Sarah Wansley workshops a new play Cain & Abel. Photo by Scott McCord

QUESTIONS? 
You may find your answer on our F.A.Q. page for artists, 
which includes information about eligibility, application materials, and more. 

Fellowships

The Drama League Fellowships are career-transforming opportunities for stage directors focusing on creative learning, skill building, and career development.

Residencies

The Drama League Residencies develop & incubate director-led projects for live performances, utilizing the resources of the Drama League in New York City.

About The Drama League

The Drama League is a home for stage directors, and a platform for dialogue with, and between, the audiences they inspire.  Founded in 1916, the organization is one of the longest-running, continuously operating arts service organizations in the United States.  To support its programs for artists, or to become a member of its community, please visit www.dramaleague.org.