An exciting competition has just launched for young theatre scriptwriters. Sam de Romijn, co-founder of the Imbewu Trust, explains the concept behind it.
Tell us about the Imbewu Trust – what is it about?
The Imbewu Trust is a non-profit organisation focused on the development and promotion of contemporary South African theatre and arts. Our objective is to promote South Africa’s cultural identity on the world stage and, in so doing, enhance our national pride. The Imbewu Trust seeks to develop, support, sustain and promote contemporary South African theatre.
You've set up the SCrIBE Script Writing Competition. What is the competition concept?
The focus of this competition is to stimulate the theatre maker’s environment by covering production costs for the winning script. South African contemporary theatre is of an incredibly high standard and we would like the work presented in this competition to represent this level.
Who is allowed to enter?
Anyone over the age of 21 is allowed to enter. The primary language needs to be English, although any of the other 12 official languages may be used in the text. Entrants must also be South African residents currently residing in the Western Cape, South Africa. This is the first year of the competition and we are aiming to open it up to national entrants next year.
Anything specific potential entrants need to keep in mind? What are the rules?
The competition closes on August 1st and the winner will be announced on August 31st. SCrIBErs need to remember that contemporary theatre in South Africa, and locally, is of an exceptionally high standard, so be original and unique in your “scribings” and tell a story that is best known to you!
Where can one find more information?
All the details are available on the Imbewu website – www.imbewuarts.com. Please go and read the terms and conditions and enter!