Organizer Information
Downtown Urban Arts Festival (DUAF) is an annual multidisciplinary arts festival organized by Creative Ammo Inc., a nonprofit arts producer dedicated to developing new American theatre and independent cinematic art while supporting emerging and diverse artists. Founded as a theatre initiative in 2001, DUAF aims to amplify underrepresented voices and create opportunities for storytellers whose work reflects contemporary urban life, multicultural experiences, and diverse communities.
Over the years, DUAF has presented hundreds of playwrights and theatrical works, with several participating artists achieving recognition through major theatre awards and Broadway success. The festival has become a platform for emerging playwrights, performers, and creators to develop and present original work in New York City.
Title & Description
Downtown Urban Arts Festival (DUAF) 25th Annual Season – Open Call for Theatrical Works
DUAF is accepting submissions of new and emerging theatrical works for its 25th Annual Season, taking place in June 2027 in Manhattan, New York City. The festival seeks original and innovative storytelling from playwrights working across diverse perspectives and experiences.
Selected works will be presented as part of DUAF’s theatre program, providing artists with professional production support, mentorship, performance opportunities, and exposure within New York’s independent theatre community. The festival welcomes plays, musicals, and solo performances that demonstrate strong artistic voices and fresh approaches to contemporary storytelling.
Categories
- Theatre / Performing Arts
- Playwriting
- Dramatic Writing
- Musicals
- Solo Performances
Submission categories:
- Short-Length Plays: Under 45 minutes
- Full-Length Plays: Up to 70 minutes
Eligibility
- Playwrights must be based in the United States.
- Submitted works may be new or existing projects but should have had minimal previous exposure.
- Plays must not exceed 70 minutes in length.
- Submitted works cannot have another production in New York City during the 30 days before or after the 2027 festival.
- The opportunity is intended for emerging and diverse theatrical voices.
- Eligibility Type: National (United States-based artists only)
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected playwrights and artists receive:
- Playwright stipend:
- $1,200 for short-length plays
- $2,000 for full-length plays
- Mentorship with experienced theatre professionals
- Actor and director stipends
- Casting support
- Technical design and production operation support
- Reimbursement of rehearsal space rental costs
- Administration support for Actors’ Equity Showcase Code application
- $1,000 awards for:
- Best Full-Length Play
- Best Short Play
- Audience Award
Additional production and development support may be provided through the festival program
Application Fee
None
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 26 October 2026
- Festival Season: June 2027
Location
Manhattan, New York City, United States
Additional Details
DUAF focuses on supporting diverse voices and works that represent contemporary social, cultural, and personal experiences. The festival provides selected playwrights with not only a presentation opportunity but also professional development resources, helping emerging artists strengthen their careers within the theatre industry.
Applicants should ensure that scripts are professionally prepared and that all required documents are submitted according to the festival’s guidelines.