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.
SHINSEI (rebirth)
by Judy M. Dove
OdysseyStage 2024 MainStage
JUST ANNOUNCED: OdysseyStage Presents World Premiere of Shinsei (rebirth) by Judy M. Dove.
Be a part of the world premiere of Shinsei by local Japanese-American playwright Judy M. Dove. This powerful, genre-bending production navigates the complexities of life, death, war, tradition, and destiny across diverse cultures, eras, and settings. Shinsei, a standout in the 2023 OdysseyStage Staged Reading Series, now takes center stage as our 2024 MainStage production. Featuring bunraku puppetry and Japanese funeral customs, each apparition strives to resolve unfinished matters, seeking closure to cross the threshold. OdysseyStage proudly receives a 2024 United Arts Community Spotlight Project Grant for this production.
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.