Applications Open June 24 – July 31, 2026

Are you a young playwright with a script you’d like to take to the next level?

Pillsbury House + Theatre’s Young Playwright Mentorship Program offers one emerging writer the opportunity to work one-on-one with acclaimed playwright, director, and educator Lester Eugene Mayers in a structured 10-week mentorship designed to strengthen a completed script and deepen the writer’s craft.

Through weekly sessions, the selected playwright will receive personalized feedback, guidance on revision, and support developing character, dialogue, structure, and theatrical storytelling. The program combines in-person meetings and online collaboration, creating a flexible environment for artistic growth.

Program Details

• Duration: 10 weeks (Fall 2026)
• Format: Hybrid (in-person and online)
• Schedule: One 2-hour session per week
• Honorarium: $500 upon successful completion

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be between 14 and 24 years old
• Live in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area
• Submit a 10–15 minute scene from a completed draft of an original play

Application Timeline

• Applications Open: June 24, 2026
• Applications Close: July 31, 2026 at 5:00 PM
• Selection Process: August 2026
• Mentorship Begins: September 2026

Meet the Mentor

Lester Eugene Mayers is a Brooklyn-born Black queer playwright, director, poet, performer, dramaturg, choreographer, and educator whose work centers memory, survival, ritual, Black queer life, grief, embodiment, and the archive.

As a mentor, Lester approaches playwrights as both artists and whole people. His process is rooted in deep listening, honest craft conversation, and a commitment to helping writers strengthen their unique artistic voice. Mentees can expect rigorous feedback, practical tools for revision, and encouragement to take creative risks while developing sustainable artistic practices.

Ready to apply? Submit your application by July 31.

How it works

• Session length: 45 minutes

• Format:

  • Sept 29 – Oct 6: Virtual only

  • After Oct 6: Virtual or in-person at Pillsbury House + Theatre

• In-person self-tapes: We provide lighting and a tripod for your recording device.

Pricing

This offering is pay-what-you-can.
A deposit is required to reserve your time. Deposits are refundable upon request.

What you’ll get

• Targeted audition coaching and feedback

• Reader for scenes and self-tapes

• Tips on framing, lighting, and sound

• File-naming and delivery guidance for submissions