DreamWorks Theatricals and Music Theater International are launching a new writers program, in partnership with NBCUniversal’s Global Talent Development & Inclusion team, the companies announced today.

The DreamWorks Theatricals / MTI Emerging Writers Program will seek to identify diverse teams of book authors, composers and lyricists with unique voices and perspectives to develop musical adaptations of popular DreamWorks Animation titles for the Music Theater International catalog.

The one-year paid program will be open to individual writers, as well as editorial teams. Selected candidates will be mentored throughout by DreamWorks Theatricals executives and other industry ambassadors. The program will also provide access to veterinarians and industry agents through panel discussions, master classes and one-on-one meetings to advance career development.

“For over 25 years, DreamWorks Animation has inspired, moved and challenged audiences with some of the most beloved stories and characters of our time,” said Chris Herzberger, Executive Vice President of Universal Theatrical Group, who runs DreamWorks Theatricals. “We are proud to dedicate this iconic catalog to the creativity, passion and exciting artistry of book authors, composers and lyricists from groups historically under-represented in American theater, and in partnership with our friends from MTI, we look forward to supporting and strengthening an exciting new generation of musical theater talent.

“MTI’s Junior Broadway and TYA shows are often a young person’s first exposure to musical theater, either as a performer or as an audience member. By matching new talent with the right material, we aim to match beloved stories with authentic voices that will adapt them to the youth market, ”added Drew Cohen, President and CEO of MTI Worldwide. “Encouraging more diverse perspectives from the writers who create these musicals is a positive way to connect with performers and their audiences in a more meaningful way. “

Applicants to the Emerging Writers Program will be required to submit a completed application, along with essay samples, release forms, resume, and personal essay. Letters of recommendation are optional.

Applicants may not have had their work produced on Broadway or the West End at any time and may not have had their work produced off Broadway or in a large regional theater within the past five years. Applicants must be 18 years of age at the time of application and be authorized to work legally in the United States.

Applications will be accepted in fall 2021, at a date to be announced later.

For more information on the program, Click here.