Soundings East, the literary journal of Salem State University, is published annually with support from the Center for Creative and Performing Arts. Founded in 1973, the journal is among the oldest in the country to publish quality poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. The magazine is edited by upper-level creative writing students under the aegis of an Advisory Editor from the writing faculty.
We accept simultaneous submissions but ask that authors label them as such, and contact us immediately if they are accepted elsewhere. Our reading period is September 1 to February 15; we'll do our best to respond within three months. Contributors will receive two copies of Soundings East Vol. 45. Upon publication, all rights revert to authors.
Designated a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs, a Top College and University by Military Advanced Education, and a Best for Vets College by Military Times, Salem State values our military connected students and their families and the sacrifices they have made for our country. Salem State is committed to supporting Veterans’ voices on and off campus. The arts create unique and powerful opportunities for individuals and groups to share experiences and constructive dialogue. As such, Salem State is proud to announce its sixth annual Veterans Playwriting contest which will culminate in staged readings of selected plays in November 2024
All playwrights, regardless of military affiliation, are invited to enter Salem State University’s 10-Minute Playwriting Contest. However, preference will be given to those with a direct military connection. This includes active-duty military, reservists, National Guard, Veterans, and direct family of any of these.
The theme of the play should directly touch on military service and/or how military service affects a community. The contest and festival look to recognize and celebrate those that have served and currently serve. We are looking to bring together a variety of voices exploring both the challenges and the victories and positive influences that Veterans have on our community.
Judges will select finalists, whose plays will be part of a series of staged readings in November 2024.
Important Dates
June 30, 2024 - Entry deadline
August 15, 2024 - Notification of finalists
November 2024 – Staged readings with post-performance discussions. Additional details forthcoming.
Contest Rules
- Only submissions through Submittable will be considered.
- One submission per playwright.
- Only original plays, not-yet produced or published, are eligible.
- All plays are judged blind. Do not include any personal, identifying information anywhere on your submission.
- Musicals and adaptations are not eligible.
- Simultaneous submissions are allowed. If your play is accepted elsewhere, please let us know immediately. If your play is chosen to be performed, you agree to withdraw your play from all other places where it is under consideration.
- By submitting, you agree to allow Salem State University to produce the first staged reading of your play.
- Scripts meeting the rules and submitted by the deadline will be reviewed by judges.
- Judging will be done by SSU faculty and members of the SSU Veterans’ community.
Judging Criteria
Story
- Plot seems fresh, intriguing and original
- Something happens; sufficient conflict and tension throughout the play
- Plot is active, vital and dramatic on stage
- Story moves along; pace is engaging
Voice
- Strong, interesting writing style
- Clear viewpoint that’s well integrated into the play
Characters
- Interesting and compelling characters
- Characters seem credible and real
- Main character evolves or develops through the course of the play
Dialogue
- Dialogue suits the characters
- Dialogue sounds natural and credible for the plot and location
- Each character has own unique voice
- Dialogue seems fresh and compelling (not dull, boring, or generic)
Appropriateness
- The play can be staged in the 10-minute time allotment in a black box theatre with limited set, sound, and design.
Overall effect
- Play is transformative and memorable
Submitting Your Work
The script must be in standard playwriting format with 12-point Courier font. Use double spacing when changing from one character to another. Use single spacing everywhere else. If you are unfamiliar with standard playwriting format, please check out this example.
PLAYS THAT FAIL TO MEET THESE CRITERIA WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
Questions: email arts@salemstate.edu
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