OdysseyStage: Your Playwriting Journey Starts Here

OdysseyStage Theatre – premiering and nurturing the creative voices of North Carolina playwrights. We provide a dynamic platform for the development of new works in Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill through a unique, three-step process: table reads, staged readings, and fully produced plays. Experience the journey from script to stage, with comprehensive support at every step. Join our vibrant community and discover diverse stories that inspire and challenge.

Contribute, participate, and evolve with us – your playwriting journey starts here at OdysseyStage.

Table Readings

An initial read-through of the script in an informal setting, allowing for feedback from actors and the director. This stage provides playwrights with the opportunity to revise and refine their work.

Staged Readings

Minimalistic performances focused on the script, featuring a panel of theater professionals discussing the play and providing further development insights. Audience feedback and discussion strengthen the connection between playwrights, actors, and audiences.

Fully-Produced World Premiers

Complete staging with sets, costumes, and lighting, showcasing the playwright’s work and serving as a stepping stone to broader opportunities.

The journey from script to stage, with comprehensive support at every step

Throughout the process, playwrights receive guidance from directors, actors, fellow playwrights, and designers, who offer creative vision, interpretation, and valuable insights to help shape the final production.

New works in development >

Annie Taft
Artistic Director, OdysseyStage

“OdysseyStage has been a huge part of my life for the past seven years and I am so proud of the company we continue to build. We have shifted our focus to be a development theatre company focusing on exclusively new works by North Carolina playwrights. We want to be a compliment to, and resource for, other local theatre companies who want to stage exciting new plays by North Carolina writers. To that end we have created a pipeline for playwrights to develop their works and hone their craft. From initial readings at Sips & Scripts, created by the amazing Yvette Holder, to intimate table readings, our “Staged: New Play Readings” series and on to full productions. OdysseyStage is the Playwright’s Theatre.“

Committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Our development pipeline also has a significant community impact, contributing to the local and regional theater scene, encouraging new voices and diverse stories, and inspiring aspiring playwrights and theater professionals.

Beneficial Outcomes of Our Development Pipeline

The outcomes of our development pipeline are multifaceted and beneficial for all stakeholders. Playwrights can achieve increased exposure, recognition, and broader distribution through publishing. Inclusion in a theater company’s season offerings connects their work to new audiences, enhances their reputation, and builds partnerships within the theater community. Moreover, industry accolades and awards may lead to future opportunities and collaborations. 

We Are a Nonprofit Organization

OdysseyStage is a nonprofit 501c3 organization supported by grants and donors. We welcome donations to help sustain our mission, so please consider how you can contribute to our mision. We invite you to get involved with OdysseyStage by volunteering as an actor, director, stage crew member, event planner, or in script reading and selection. You can also serve on our board of directors, attend workshops and events to enhance your skills, and network with fellow theater professionals and enthusiasts.