The 2nd  Stage at Burlington County Footlighters Theatre in Cinnaminson NJ is producing our fourth annual Curtain Rising: Staged Readings of New Works as part of our 2025-2026 season. This thought-provoking event will showcase short one-act plays which explore the underlying theme of If Not Now, Then When?

 

We are currently accepting script submissions and will select plays for minimally staged readings to be performed on Friday February 27th & Saturday February 28th, 2026.  The 2nd Stage is our black box performance space, seating about 30 people. Playwrights agree to have their work be presented with no monetary compensation. Playwrights will receive production stills and two (2) comp tickets (one for the playwright and one guest) for Saturday night’s performance.

 

Playwrights must be present at the Saturday evening performance to see their work and participate in our audience talkback session. Playwrights should be aware that our 2nd Stage is not ADA accessible. There is a staircase that attendees need to climb to access the space. If you cannot access the space, please let us know when you submit. We do have an alternative plan to accommodate playwrights with mobility challenges. 

 

In order to be considered:

Plays need to fit within the theme, have no more than five characters, be performed in 10-15 minutes, and have minimal staging/technical requirements. Plays should not have been formally produced. 

 

To submit your play, follow this link. 

 

Questions? Contact Heidi at curtainrising@bcfootlighters.com

https://www.facebook.com/2ndStageAtBCF

https://www.bcfootlighters.com/

Deadline for submission is January 12th, 2026. Plays will be announced in early February 2025.