What We Look For

Exceptional Artistry. A Meaningful Next Step.

The Peter J. Hengel Award supports an exceptional new musical at a moment when a meaningful investment can help it move forward. We consider both the work’s artistic promise and the opportunity our support could make possible.

Every musical has its own voice, history, and developmental journey. We consider each work as a whole, guided by six areas of consideration.

Artistic Merit

We look for compelling storytelling, imaginative music and lyrics, and a strong relationship among the musical’s elements. We consider what makes the work engaging and the artistic potential it could realize through further development.

Voice & Perspective

We are interested in musicals with a distinctive voice and something meaningful to share. That might emerge through the story, its characters, its musical language, or the perspective the artists bring to their work.

Developmental Readiness

We consider where the musical is in its development and what its creative team needs to explore next. The work does not need to be finished; it needs a meaningful next step that our support could help make possible.

Impact

We ask what a $25,000 investment could accomplish for this musical at this moment. We look for an opportunity to make a substantive contribution to its continued development.

Creative Team

We consider the artists behind the musical, their commitment to the work, and their ability to collaborate through its next stage. We are interested in how the team approaches the creative process and the possibilities ahead.

Path Forward

We consider the team’s plans for continued development and how the proposed next step fits into that journey. We look for a thoughtful direction and a clear connection between the support requested and the work to be undertaken.

These considerations guide our judgment. They are not a point system or a guarantee of selection. Final award decisions are subject to Board approval.