Beeta Universal Arts Foundation, a trailblasing organisation committed to nurturing the Arts in Nigeria and Africa, has unveiled the highly anticipated 6th edition of its Playwright Competition. Spearheaded by the visionary Bikiya Graham-Douglas, the foundation has consistently championed the growth of talents and the entire performing arts landscape in Nigeria, solidifying the nation’s presence on the global creative stage.
In a bid to empower aspiring playwrights, this year’s Beeta Playwright Competition invites exceptionally gifted individuals between the ages of 18 and 40 to submit their literary masterpieces for a chance to claim the grand prize of $3,000.
The theme for the 2023 edition, “No Limits,” encourages contestants to push the boundaries of their creativity and deliver submissions that challenge conventions.
The submission window for entries will remain open until September 30, 2023, allowing playwrights ample time to craft their narratives and participate in this prestigious competition. The fortunate winner will not only receive the generous monetary reward but will also secure a valuable publishing deal with one of Beeta Universal Arts Foundation’s esteemed publishing partners, Paperworth Books, under the guidance of Ibiso Graham-Douglas.
Additionally, the top 10 finalists will enjoy the privilege of participating in a capacity-building workshop and potentially embarking on a curated tour of select plays with Utopia Theatre in the United Kingdom, overseen by Mojisola Elufowoju. A live production of the winning play will be brought to life, further amplifying the playwright’s artistic prowess.
The distinguished panel of judges presiding over the 2023 Beeta Playwright Competition includes luminaries in the world of arts and culture, such as Ahmed Yerima, Ego Boyo, Shaibu Husseini, Ibiso Graham-Douglas, Kenneth Uphopho, and Ayo Jaiyesimi. In recognition of the dedication, creativity, and time invested in the writing process, shortlisted playwrights will be rewarded with consolation prizes.
Reflecting on the initiative’s success, Bikiya Graham-Douglas, the foundation’s founder, shared her motivations, stating, “We are grateful for the wealth of talent discovered in Nigeria. We initiated this competition because we identified a void in documenting playwrights from my generation. As an actress and producer, I often found myself searching for new material in vain. Thus, we established this platform. It’s truly gratifying to witness these young talents writing and narrating their unique versions of our history. They deserve our applause.”
Previous editions of the Beeta Playwright Competition have seen outstanding works recognized, including ‘Our Son the Minister’ by Paul Ugbede, Jagagba by Abdul Qudus-Ibrahim, Daughters of the East by Achalugo Chioma Ezekobe, ‘Black Dust’ by Temilolu Fosudo, and ‘The Mask We Wear’ by Femi Akande, during the 5th edition.
The 6th edition of this prestigious competition is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Chairborne Global Services Limited, MTN Foundation, Utopia Theatre UK, Olajide Oyewole LLP, and Paperworth Books. All aspiring playwrights can submit their entries at www.beetauniversal.org, while specific terms and conditions apply.
Stay updated on the competition and join the conversation on social media by following @beetaarts or email info@beetauniversal.org.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this remarkable journey of artistic exploration and discovery.