TRAVERSE CITY — The Old Town Playhouse and the Village at Grand Traverse Commons have launched the Northern Michigan Asylum Playwriting Contest, inviting playwrights to submit original works inspired by the Northern Michigan Asylum. The contest is open for submissions until Dec. 31, 2026.
The Northern Michigan Asylum, also known as the Traverse City State Hospital, serves as the inspiration for this contest. Winning entries will be produced by Old Town Playhouse at Kirkbride Hall, one of the original asylum buildings, ensuring performances take place in a historically significant setting.
All playwrights ages 18 and older are eligible to participate in the contest. Works submitted must be written in English and co-authored submissions are permitted.
Entries can be of various styles, including dramatic, comedic, historical, speculative, or musical, but must meaningfully honor or explore the unique history and architecture of the asylum. Accepted formats include one-act plays, two-act plays and musicals.
Wes Curry, the Artistic Director for Old Town Playhouse, expressed enthusiasm about the contest, stating, “We are so excited about this partnership. The asylum buildings are such a unique feature in our area and the history of Traverse City. Since only original work is allowed, these will be entirely new creations generated for this contest. We are all looking forward to seeing the creativity of the stories about this amazing place.”
The contest is currently open for submissions and will continue until Dec. 31, 2026.
For more information, click here.