MITF Extends Submissions Deadline through March 23

The Midtown International Theatre Festival (MITF), now in preparation for its eighth annual summer offering of theatrical gems (both new works and revivals), has extended its deadline for submission from February 20th to March 23rd.  This year's Festival will run from July 16-August 5, 2007.

In addition to its usual contingent of non-musical plays (curated by co-artistic director Glory S. Bowen), the MITF is actively seeking international plays (curated by Michael Roderick) and musicals (curator soon to be announced). Solo plays will continue to be a large part of the MITF and will also be curated by Bowen.

"The way things worked out, we were able to extend the submission deadline," explained John Chatterton, MITF executive producer. "And I'm hoping that all the playwrights and theatre companies out there with projects that deserve to come to life on stage will take advantage of this extra time and submit their shows to the MITF.  Plus, for the first time, various awards will be bestowed by the MITF staff at the conclusion of the Festival, including at least one cash prize."

Chatterton sees the MITF as "the festival that cares" because its large, full-time staff can pay more attention to participants' needs than some bigger festivals.  The MITF presents 200+performances of 40-60 shows each summer in various theatres, all located within a one-block radius. All this activity in a limited area during a three-week period makes for an intense and focused experience for all participants - including the audience.

The Eighth Annual Midtown International Theatre Festival will take place at five separate venues: the WorkShop Theatre's Jewel Box and MainStage spaces (312 West 36th Street, 4th floor) Chatterton's Where Eagles Dare Theatre and Studio Theatre (347 West 36th Street, on the ground and 13th floors, respectively) and Cheryl King's Stage Left Studios (338 West 37th Street, Suite 5A).  The Stage Left Studios will be the home for all MITF solo shows.

All submissions for the Eighth Annual Midtown International Theatre Festival must be postmarked by March 23, 2007.  Those interested in applying must download an application form from the Festival's Web site (www.midtownfestival.org) and send the completed form, as well as all accompanying materials (scripts, samples of music, etc.), along with a non-refundable applicable fee of $30.00, to: Midtown International Theatre Festival, 347 West 36th Street, 13th Floor, New York, New York 10018.

Additional details about the MITF process can be found on the Festival's Web site, along with numerous testimonials from past Festival participants.  Applicants are strongly urged to peruse the site in detail before sending in an application.  Any additional questions can be e-mailed to festival@oobr.com.