New Jersey students, ages 13 to 18, were invited to submit original works that were at least 10 but no more than 30 pages typed in play format. Theater professionals judged the entries and selected four top prize winners and six honorable mention. The award ceremony, which  is free and open to the public, is a fun way to celebrate the accomplishments of these talented young wrtiers.  It is also an opportunity for family, friends and the community to share in the  experience by becoming audience members and witness the thrill of the four winning young  playwrights as their work is performed script-in-hand by professional actors of The Theater Project.

  “This award is in recognition of the quality of the work, and a vote of confidence in all the writers’ future growth," said Mark Spina, artistic director of The Theater Project.  The Young Playwrights Competition is sponsored by Linden resident Bill Mesce, Jr., an award-winning  HBO corporate writer, playwright and screenwriter.

The first prize winner is John Saavedra, Jr. of Linden; second prize winner is Natalie James of Hazlet; and tied for third prize are Lauren Ciaravalli of Summit and Andrea Seymore of Plainfield.  In addition to having their works performed, the four prize winnersleach received saving bonds.

The six honorable mentions, including Claushelle Achille of Irvington, Lisa Cavallo of Westfield,  Charles Kennedy and James Nissenbaum (joint entry) of Watchung, Melissa Marques of Hazlet, Jessica Milne of New Milford and Kaitlin Nolan of Colonia, were presented with citations and gift certificates.

This free event was presented as part of the state-wide New Jersey Theatre Alliance’s Family Week at the Theatre (www.familyweek.com/2009).

About The Theater Project

The Theater Project, located at and supported by Union County College, has been recognized  by grants from the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the New Jersey State Arts Council, The  Union County College Foundation, the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, and the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs. The Theater Project can be reached at (908) 659-5189; or contact us by clicking here.   The Theater Project is wheelchair accessible.

About Union County College

As the oldest community college in New Jersey, UCC has been serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College has maintained its commitment to scholarship by providing a solid liberal arts foundation while, at the same time, developing new programs and courses that meet the challenges of a rapidly developing society. UCC has an open admissions policy and is dedicated to the fundamental values of public higher education. The College offers 80 programs leading to Associate degrees, certificates, or diplomas. To learn more, visit www.ucc.edu.