Essential Theatre

Giving Georgia Playwrights a Voice.

The longest-running theatre company exclusively dedicated to supporting Georgia playwrights.

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What’s Essential

2026 General Auditions

Now through May 1, submit your video audition for our General Auditions! Submit your video…

Susan Swavely, 2026 Essential Theatre Playwriting Award Winner

Announcing the 2026 Essential Theatre Playwriting Award Winner, Susan Swavely!

We’re happy to announce that Susan Swavely’s Helen of the West has been chosen as…

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Our History & Mission

Essential Theatre is the longest-running theatre exclusively dedicated to supporting the work of Georgia playwrights. Our mission is to nurture and produce new works by Georgia playwrights and to enrich our audience’s experience by actively engaging them in the process.

Since the first Essential Play Festival in 1999, we’ve premiered or presented 54 new works by 46 different Georgia playwrights, many of which have gone on to publication and future productions around the country. Our vision is a thriving, dynamic American theatre community in which Georgia playwrights are a recognized and celebrated part.

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Essential Theatre, Inc is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization.

Giving Georgia Playwrights a Voice.

The longest-running theatre company exclusively dedicated to supporting Georgia playwrights.

Create

Experience

Learn

Support

What’s Essential

2026 General Auditions

Announcing the 2026 Essential Theatre Playwriting Award Winner, Susan Swavely!

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