FAQ

Who should apply?
Composers, lyricists and bookwriters who work in musical theatre are eligible to apply for the grants. We are aware that artists work in multiple disciplines; and while it is not necessary that you only work in musical theatre, selections of representative work submitted must be for musical theatre.

For 2012, all applications must include book, music, and lyrics from one or more works of musical theatre. Individuals may apply for support of their work in all three disciplines. Regular collaborators are encouraged to apply as a team and submit one application.

The Jonathan Larson Grants do not currently fund organizations for musical theatre productions. If you are an organization producing work, consider applying for the ATW Theatre Company Grant Program.

I've applied for the grant in the past, what is different for 2012?
All past applicants are invited to apply again, regardless of whether you've applied in the past. Applicants should try to submit different material that reflects your latest work. Even if your project is the same it is usually best to select and incorporate at least some different work samples to highlight what you consider to be the strongest parts.

I write with several collaborative teams. Can I apply with them all?
Applicants may only appear on one application per grant cycle. If you write with multiple teams, we encourage you to choose to apply with a team with whom you have a significant working relationship. Ideally, you and your team will have collaborated on more than one project, but this is not required.

Can I apply if I am still in school?
No. The Larson Grants are not scholarships. Artists applying for grants should have begun working professionally.

Are there any age restrictions?
No, although the focus is on artists in early to mid-career who have not yet received a significant level of acclaim (and attendant income) in their field. Artists who have had a work successfully produced on Broadway, for example, will most likely not be considered.

What are the criteria for selection?
The selection committees will judge applicants based on talent, artistic merit, and a commitment to a career in musical theatre.

Why is it important to send three copies of the application and attachments?
Each application is read by two to three readers with expertise in the field. Our resources limit the time we can take to make copies, plus, by submitting your own copies, you control the quality of your work as seen by the adjudicators.

How can I use the grant award?
These grants recognize your talent as an artist, and are meant to provide general support to help you in your career. There are no restrictions.

If I work with a collaborator, should we apply separately or as a team?
Teams that work together on a regular basis should send in one application as a collaborative team. Artists who work in all disciplines (alone or with collaborators on key projects) should apply as an individual, but only with work that they did on their own. For 2011, the grants will not honor composers, lyricists, or librettists individually.

How should I choose my representative work?
Simply submit your best work; this is one of the most important parts of your application.

Make song selections that showcase the variety of styles you work in. Prepare one disc of 3-6 songs that show all of your skills to their best advantage, then send three copies of that disc with your application.

Remember, first impressions are important: although your representative work will be heard in full by each reader, the first selection should be a strong one, so the adjudicator looks forward to hearing more. If you are able, it is best to submit work from more than one piece (although, this is not a requirement).

It is important that some of your music selections correspond to the book you have submitted. This reveals how everything works together.

Can my letters of recommendation come under separate cover?
Yes, but to be considered, they should arrive no later than one week after the application deadline (For the 2012 cycle, this means all letters must be received by September 16th, 2011).

What is the selection process?
Each application is read and scored by at least two readers with expertise in musical theatre. The highest scoring applicants (approximately 10-15) go to an Expert Panel for the final decision.

I have specific questions about my situation that is not covered here, what should I do?
Artists often have unique questions regarding their collaborative teams, their work samples, or their application formatting. If you are uncertain what to do, call the office for guidance at (212) 765-0606.

Additionally, on August 8th, 2011 at 6pm, there will be a one-hour information session in New York City for those who would like additional guidance and information on putting together an application. Please RSVP to larsongrants@americantheatrewing.org to receive the details regarding this meeting.

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