Cherry Lane Theater Launches New Playwrights Collective with Annie Baker‘s Guidance
The historic Cherry Lane Theatre in New York City is bolstering its commitment to emerging playwrights with the launch of a new Playwrights Collective. This initiative aims to nurture the next generation of theatrical voices, building on a legacy that has championed groundbreaking work for over a century.
Annie Baker, a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, will lend her expertise to the program, offering mentorship and guidance to selected writers. Her involvement underscores the collective’s dedication to fostering authentic and innovative storytelling.
A legacy of supporting New Voices
Cherry Lane Theatre holds a unique place in American theatre history. It’s the oldest continuously running Off-Broadway theatre in New York city, and has been a vital incubator for some of the most influential playwrights of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Consider the artists who first showcased their work within its walls:
* F. Scott Fitzgerald
* Eugene O’Neill
* Samuel Beckett
* Pablo Picasso
* T.S. Eliot
* Tennessee Williams
* Sam Shepard
This new collective continues that tradition, providing a crucial platform for playwrights on the cusp of recognition.
Program Details & What to Expect
the Playwrights Collective will select six writers annually for a year-long progress program. This intensive experience is designed to support the creation of new, full-length plays.
If you are a playwright who hasn’t yet had a production on Broadway or Off-broadway, this program is specifically designed for you. You’re encouraged to submit your work for consideration. Details regarding submission deadlines and the submission process will be released in early 2026.
A Theatre Reimagined
Cherry Lane Theatre underwent a change in ownership in March 2023, acquired by a partnership between A24 and Taurus Investment Holdings, LLC. This investment has allowed the theatre to expand its programming beyond conventional plays.
Today, you can find a diverse range of performances at Cherry Lane, including comedy, music, and film alongside theatrical productions. This evolution reflects a commitment to serving a broader artistic community while remaining rooted in its theatrical core.
Supporting the Future of theatre
investing in new play development is vital for a thriving theatre ecosystem.By supporting programs like the Cherry Lane Playwrights Collective, you contribute to a future where diverse voices and innovative stories can flourish. Consider supporting organizations dedicated to fostering the arts to ensure a vibrant cultural landscape for years to come.
