TAKE THE STAGE AWARD
Sponsored by Theatre 68 Arts Festival / Theatre 68 Arts Complex
Description
The Take the Stage Award is presented by the Theatre 68 Arts Festival to one standout production at the Hollywood Fringe Festival that truly embodies the spirit of bold, multidisciplinary artistry.
Hosted by Theatre 68 Arts Complex, a multi-venue arts space dedicated to supporting independent artists across theatre, comedy, film, visual art, and more, the Theatre 68 Arts Festival was created to bring diverse forms of creative expression together under one roof in the heart of North Hollywood. This award was born out of that mission to identify and uplift artists who are pushing boundaries and redefining what live art can be.
We are looking for work that goes beyond traditional storytelling; productions that challenge form, blend disciplines, and offer a unique artistic perspective through movement, language, imagery, sound, or immersive experience. This is not just about a great show, it’s about a piece that represents the future of live art.
Qualifications
Must be original, non published work in any category
Must run about 60 minutes and have a minimum of 3 performances in Fringe.
Must be able to present their work at the Theatre 68 Arts Festival Between August 6th through 23rd if selected
Please submit your application using THIS FORM only
Please submit your show early, as we will only be able to attend the first 20-25 shows submitted! We will add a note to the top of the form once we have reached capacity after that point, there is no guarantee we can attend.
Methodology
Award recipients will be selected by a committee of Theatre 68 Arts Festival and Theatre Planners members, comprised of individuals with experience in all aspects of production from directing, acting, technicians and producing.
This award is given to a production that exemplifies bold, boundary-pushing work across all artistic disciplines. We are looking for a piece that not only entertains, but challenges form, medium, or perspective, whether through movement, language, imagery, sound, or immersive storytelling.
While there is no rigid scoring rubric, selections are guided by the following criteria:
- Artistic merit and originality
- Innovation across or beyond traditional disciplines
- Strength of creative voice and execution
- Audience engagement and overall impact
Special consideration will be given to productions that explore art beyond traditional categories, blend genres, or reimagine what it means to share live art with an audience.
Reward
The recipient of the Theatre 68 Arts Festival – Take the Stage Award will receive:
- A physical certificate presented at the Hollywood Fringe Festival Awards Ceremony
- A digital laurel for promotional use
In addition, the award includes a sponsored opportunity to extend their work at the Theatre 68 Arts Festival (August 6–23, 2026), designed to help take their production to the next level. This includes:
- Complimentary festival registration
- One free performance at Theatre 68 Arts Complex (venue of choice, based on availability)
- 2 hours of technical rehearsal
- Festival marketing and promotional support
- Access to continued collaboration opportunities within Theatre 68 Arts Complex
Note: Technical personnel and insurance costs are the responsibility of the artist.
