Scala (formerly TapasTheater) usually offers paid performance opportunities to (new) creators who perform their own shows. Since last year, we’ve also created a platform for writers who don’t necessarily want to perform, and for singers/actors who don’t necessarily want to create, resulting in successful productions like 'Volgende Halte', 'Maandagavond' and 'Fluitje van een Cent'. We’re now looking for writers with inspiration for a 20-minute comedy who would like to write a show for Scala on a paid basis.

Who are we?
 

Scala not only offers paid work to artists but also an accessible theatre format to audiences. Each evening, we program three different shows (across all genres). Each show lasts 20 minutes and is performed three times per evening. All performances are created by professional artists and carefully selected by a curating committee. A production typically runs for two weeks (i.e., 8 performance days, 3 shows per evening = 24 performances per run), with a chance for a reprise. On the ground floor, we have a food bar where visitors can eat and drink before, between, or after the shows.
 

Why are we making this call?
 

Scala only programs high-quality productions. High quality is often associated with heavier themes, layered content, and major societal relevance. We will certainly continue to program such productions. However, we also want to expand our offerings with more quality comedies: shows with lighter themes, smaller/everyday topics, and relatable situations that appeal to a wide audience. Humor is a key element here. The performance should last 20 minutes, have a clear beginning and end, be of high artistic quality, be playable by one or two actors, and offer a broad audience a positive theater experience.
 

In addition to broadening our programming, we’ve also noticed that many actors are eager for work or performance opportunities but lack the tools to write a show themselves. On the other hand, we see many (young) writers whose texts don’t get performed enough. Scala hopes to bring these two groups together through this project.
 

What’s next?
 

If you’re interested, we warmly invite you to submit a one-page synopsis outlining the full storyline of your proposed show (not just a teaser). You may submit multiple pitches if you wish. Please send your synopsis by Sunday, July 20th at the latest.
 

What’s the compensation?
 

For those writers whose pitched shows are deemed the best fit for Scala by our selection committee, we’d love to move into the next phase. This includes a conversation about your synopsis and a commission to write the full script. The compensation is €500 (excluding VAT) per script.
 

If you have any questions, feel free to call us at +31 (0)20-7793306 or send Scala an email.

Thank you very much for your interest — we look forward to receiving your synopsis!