Request for Proposals (RFP) for Playwrights: Adaptation of a Children’s Book
Request for Proposals (RFP) for Playwrights: Adaptation of a Children’s Book
Organization Overview
The Children’s Museum & Theatre (CMTM) is dedicated to creating transformative arts experiences that set the stage for every child to imagine and learn through play. We are excited to commission a new theatrical adaptation that will celebrate Black and Brown voices in children’s literature and theatre.
About Project
CMTM will commission a playwright to adapt Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora for the stage. The story was selected from the Beautiful Blackbird Children’s Book Festival library in collaboration with partners Indigo Arts Alliance and I’m Your Neighbor Books. This play will become a cornerstone production in our 2026-2027 Children’s Theatre Season at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine.
Project Goals
Adapt a children’s book by a Black or Brown author into a play that centers themes of belonging, community, and imagination.
Engage in a collaborative new play development process, culminating in a fully produced production during the 2026-2027 season.
Project Timeline
September 2025
RFP closes; proposals reviewed
October 2025
Playwright selected, writing begins
November 2025
Initial conversation with creative team
January 2026
Draft 1 due; internal workshop reading
May 2026
Draft 2 due; workshop reading with invited community members and educators
September 2026
Draft 3 due; public workshop reading
November 2026
Production draft finalized
February 2027
Full production
Compensation
Commission Fee: $5,000 for the completed play adaptation
Travel and Accommodations: Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursable for travel incurred in connection with this project, up to a maximum of $500. Any expenses exceeding this amount must be approved in advance by CMTM.
Submission Requirements
Interested playwrights should submit the following materials:
Letter of Interest: Describe your interest in the project and how your background aligns with the goals of the commission.
Work Samples: Provide up to two samples of previous plays or scripts, preferably for young audiences.
Resume/CV: Highlight relevant experience in playwriting, particularly for young audiences.
References: Contact information for two professional references familiar with your work.
Selection Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated on the following:
Alignment with CMTM’s mission to inspire children through play and imagination
Demonstrated experience or interest in creating work for young audiences
Strong storytelling skills and ability to adapt literary work into engaging theatrical narratives
Commitment to collaborative play development with diverse creative teams
Submission Deadline
All proposals must be submitted by August 30, 2025.
Submission Instructions
Please send proposals to hiring@kitetails.org with the subject line “Playwright RFP Submission.”
Contact Information
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Reba Askari
Theatre Artistic Director
Children’s Museum & Theatre
reba@kitetails.org
(207) 828-1234 x250