How We Select a Musical

Invitation Only. Thoughtful Consideration.

The Peter J. Hengel Award is selected through an invitation-only process. We discover promising new musicals through relationships across the theatre community and consider where our investment could make a meaningful difference.

The Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications. There is no open application period or submission deadline.

Discovering Promising Work

Our relationships with writers, theatres, festivals, development organizations, producers, and other theatre leaders help us learn about new musicals at different stages of their journey.

We look for work with exceptional artistic promise and an opportunity for our support to help make an important next step possible.

Getting to Know the Musical

When a musical is invited for consideration, we may review its script, score, recordings, development history, and plans for the future. The materials we consider depend on the work and its stage of development.

We may also speak with members of the creative team and organizations involved in the musical’s development to better understand the work, its needs, and the possibilities ahead.

Considering the Next Step

We consider the musical’s artistic merit, voice and perspective, developmental readiness, creative team, and path forward. We also ask what a $25,000 investment could accomplish at this particular moment.

As needed, we may seek input from independent theatre professionals and conduct additional due diligence to understand the proposed development activity and use of funds.

Board Review and Approval

Following this review, a finalist is presented to the Foundation’s Board of Directors for consideration. The Board approves the final award decision.

Once an award is approved, we work with the recipient to confirm the arrangements for supporting the musical’s continued development.

Our process is designed to give each musical thoughtful consideration while keeping our focus on one meaningful investment.