MCCARTY NEW WORKS INITIATIVE

At Constellation, we are deeply committed to new work. In fact, at least 50% of the shows in each theatrical season are Constellation Originals – new, unpublished plays. This bold commitment, part of the McCarty New Works Initiative, ensures that the development and production of original pieces of theater will remain an integral part of our artistic mission. The creation of new works affords Constellation a platform to expose our local audiences to relevant, original stories. 

From Bloomington to Broadway… and beyond!

Constellation Originals start here in Bloomington and then travel the world

Your experience matters. Our playwrights are often in the audience with you, changing the show based on your reactions before they move on to impact other communities across the globe. An incredible 130 Constellation Originals have gone on to more than 1,600 productions, in all 50 states and 15 countries – and you saw them here first!

Constellation Originals are YOUR chance to see the next big thing! Click here to explore our interactive map of all shows.

24/25 Season Constellation Originals

Click on a poster below to learn more about the show!

June 4 – 29, 2025

Woodward/Newman Award

Constellation’s annual new play competition, the Woodward/Newman Award, started in 2010 with support of Joanne Woodward, Newman’s Own, and the Newman Family. Each year, playwrights submit their plays to be read by Constellation’s Woodward/Newman reading committee. The winning playwright receives $3,000 and a full production of their script in Constellation’s next season. With over 2,000 submissions each season, the Woodward/Newman Award is one of the only playwriting competitions in the United States with no entry fees and an ongoing submission process. Click here to learn more and submit!

2022-2023 Winner: American Fast by Kareem Fahmy
2023-2024 Winner: Webster’s B!+@# by Jacqueline Bircher
2024-2025 Winner: The King’s Wife: A New Musical – Book by Mêlisa Annis, Music and Lyrics by Jamie Floyd

A National Impact

The goal of Constellation’s new works program is to establish Constellation as a launching pad for plays and musicals that have promise for further production in prominent regional theaters, and even in off-Broadway and Broadway venues. Constellation aims to be a consistent contributor to the canon of American theater, garnering national attention as a hub of creative activity. 

Notable Productions of Constellation Originals:

The Life and Slimes of Marc Summers
Originally developed and produced at Constellation, this show was produced Off-Broadway February 14 – June 2, 2024. The show was written by Alex Brightman and Drew Gasparini, featured the entire original Bloomington creative team, and was directed by Constellation’s Artistic Director Chad Rabinovitz! Read more about the show in this Playbill.com article!