Brave enough to write a play in four weeks? Because we'll put it on stage.
Bring your script to life in a weekend. Moment Theatre Collective is producing six to eight original short plays this August, with the potential for continuing performances at venues across the greater Montréal and Ottawa Valley region.
Stage Fright is built as a low-barrier, time-crunched opportunity to try something new — write a play, direct a piece, take a role — without committing to a months-long process.
We are looking for playwrights, directors, and performers. We especially welcome artists who have not worked with MTC before — submissions from new collaborators are given significant weight in our selection process.
A note on compensation
Stage Fright is a volunteer project. MTC is actively seeking funding, but we cannot guarantee a stipend for any role at this time. If funding is secured, the board will determine allocation by resolution.
For playwrights
Submit an original script. Your play must be:
- —7–10 pages (approximately 15 minutes), dialogue-forward. No paragraph-long monologues, no improvisation.
- —Written for 2–4 actors.
- —Producible with 5 props maximum, chosen from our approved list.
- —Clearly designated as: COMEDY, DRAMA, or OTHER (be specific).
All submissions are anonymized and reviewed by a panel. Playwrights submitting a script may advocate to direct their own piece if they have a strong creative vision and do not intend to perform in it — indicate this on your submission form. Playwrights may not also perform in their play.
For directors
No previous MTC experience required. Indicate whether you have a confirmed script and/or cast when you apply. Each selected director is assigned a script and two rehearsal blocks — the writer hands over creative control to you by contract.
Directors may not also perform.
For performers
Apply with your availability and any scheduling constraints. You may be asked to submit a self-tape and/or attend an audition. Scripts are distributed once selections are made — you are expected to be off-book by the first rehearsal.
Performers may not also write or direct.
Rehearsal structure
Each project is given two 4-hour rehearsal blocks during the rehearsal weekend (July 31 – August 2). Any additional rehearsal time is at the project team's request and must be coordinated and facilitated by the team itself, including booking any outside space. MTC does not provide rehearsal space outside the rehearsal weekend.
The dress rehearsal on August 7 is mandatory for all cast and directors.
Code of conduct
All accepted participants — playwrights, directors, and performers — are required to sign MTC's code of conduct before the project begins. The code covers respectful collaboration, safe rehearsal practices, and our expectations around professionalism and accountability.
Key dates
- June 4 Submissions due for all playwrights, directors, and performers
- June 15 Playwrights notified of selection
- June 22 Directors notified and assigned
- June 29 Performers notified and cast
- July 13 Scripts distributed to performers
- July 31 Rehearsals begin, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- August 1 Rehearsals, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- August 2 Rehearsals, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- August 7 Dress rehearsal, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM (mandatory, no exceptions)
- August 8 Show 1: call 6:00 PM, curtain 8:00 PM
- August 9 Show 2: call 6:00 PM, curtain 8:00 PM
Apply
Select your role below and fill out the form. The call opens May 11.
Submit your original script and application details. All submissions are anonymized before review. The form includes an optional field to advocate for directing your own piece.
Apply as a playwright