August Roundup!

by Gina L. Grandi
Artistic Director

On July 25th, The Bechdel Group presented our biannual 24 Hour Writing Challenge! 10 playwrights had 24 hours to write a ten-minute, Bechdel Test friendly play that incorporated “the voice of reason.” The writers wrote for a specific group of actors and were free to incorporate the phrase in any way they wished: as a title, as a theme, as a line of dialogue, or as a vague source of inspiration. The result: 10 new plays featuring strong, dynamic female characters. We were thrilled to have the chance to work with some of our favorite actors and playwrights, as well bring some new favorites into the community. Be sure to tune into our Bechdel Podcast (the second week of each month), since we will regularly feature readings of plays created in these challenges. Want to play? Make sure you're signed up for our mailing list, where we'll send out the call for January's challenge.

24 Hour Challenge in action

24 Hour Challenge writers, actors, and audience.

The playwrights and actors of "WNDA"

Our amazing Bechdel actors cold read each of the 10 new plays produced for the challenge.

Our final event of the summer will be an August Takeover! That’s right, women of Bechdel are taking over to bring you selections from their own work for workshopping. Join us on Monday, August 29th a at the Back Room at Jimmy's No. 43 for new work by Executive Director Alexa Fitzpatrick and board members Patti Veconi and Suzanne Willett. 
 
We are delighted to officially announce our Fall Reading Season! Each month, we’ll feature selections from two new plays or screenplays, followed by a festive discussion. Mark your calendars; we hope to see you there!
 
Monday, September 26th:
Bara Swain’s Providence
Suzanne Egan's Homestyle

Monday, October 24th:
Lavinia Roberts’ The Will
Brooke Berman’s Hurricane

Monday, December 12th:
Kristine M. Reyes’ Eggs on Ice
John Barrow’s Lillian Paula Carson
 
The reading period for our Spring Season is currently open – all scripts received between now and November 15th will be considered. Please read our submission guidelines carefully!

Have a marvelous month! See you at Jimmy's!

Gina :)