Welcome, playwrights and storytellers!

Playwrights are the lifeblood of our theatre.

We typically produce five, original, full-length works per season, so we are always looking for new voices.


Do you have a story to tell?

Kumu Kahua Theatre is dedicated to telling stories by, for and about the people of Hawai‘i. We produce almost entirely original works by local playwrights telling local stories. We do make occasional exceptions for playwrights outside of Hawai‘i sharing stories relevant to the Hawai‘i experience, and our classes and contests are open to non-residents.


Just getting started

If you’re new to playwriting but you have some experience as an actor, volunteer or audience member, the best way to get started is with one of our (infrequently offered but excellent) playwriting classes. These classes are taught for beginners and intermediates by award-winning local playwrights like Victoria Nālani Kneubuhl and Lee A. Tonouchi.

Or jump right in and try your hand at a short scene or monologue for our monthly playwriting contest, Go Try PlayWrite, co-sponsored by local publisher Bamboo Ridge Press. 

(If you’re not already familiar with the conventions of theatre and our offerings in particular, the best way to get started is to attend a show.)


Experienced playwrights

If you’re an experienced playwright, you can submit your play for consideration.

Note: we are only looking for plays by local playwrights or plays that speak to the Hawai‘i experience or, ideally, both. Please read the submission guidelines on that page before you submit! 

You can also submit your full-length plays to the Annual Playwriting Contest, which we co-sponsor with the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Department of Theatre and Dance and which has categories for residents and non-residents. (You can also submit to the monthly short play contest, Go Try PlayWrite.)

For Dramatist’s Guild Members, we also offer free tickets to our shows.

 

Commitment to Playwrights

THE PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Although the Artistic Director has the final decision regarding selection of the play’s director, he or she will consult with you about possible directors.

APPROVAL OF SCRIPT CHANGES

You will be free to attend all rehearsals of your play. Any proposed alterations to the script must be submitted to you in writing and subject to your written approval; once approved those alterations shall be part of the play and your property. Script changes will only be made with your consent.

SCRIPT INTERPRETATION

Although the final artistic decisions regarding interpretation of the script, including casting of roles, design, etc., will be made by the play’s director and/or Kumu Kahua’s Artistic Director, the director of the production will consult with you prior to rehearsals, and when you are available during rehearsals.