Black Women on Broadway is taking bold steps to uplift emerging talent in theatre. The organization has announced two major programs designed to celebrate and amplify Black women’s voices. One initiative focuses on high school students, while the other supports aspiring playwrights.
Academy Award-nominated actress Danielle Brooks is leading the charge. She’s returning to her home state to inspire the next wave of performers. Both programs reflect a commitment to honoring theatrical legacy while creating fresh opportunities.
Century Cycle Continues Monologue Competition Brings August Wilson’s Legacy to South Carolina Students
Danielle Brooks is launching an annual monologue competition in South Carolina. The Century Cycle Continues program honors legendary playwright August Wilson’s storytelling spirit. Brooks co-founded Black Women on Broadway and wants to ignite passion in young performers.
The competition partners with The South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities. This is Brooks’ alma mater, making the collaboration deeply personal. High school students can submit monologues that showcase works by playwrights of color.
“The stories of Black playwrights have shaped theatre in profound ways,” Brooks explains. “I want South Carolina students to feel that legacy to see themselves in it, and to keep the cycle going.” The competition emphasizes that while Wilson’s “Century Cycle” concluded, Black theatre’s story continues unfolding.
How Students Can Enter the Monologue Competition and What They Can Win
Students must perform a one to two-minute monologue for their submission. The piece should come from a contemporary or classic playwright of color. This requirement ensures diverse voices remain at the forefront.
The deadline for submissions falls on January 3, 2026. Students can upload their performances at cccmonologuecompetition.com. Finalists will receive announcement on February 3, 2026.
The live finals take place on February 28, 2026, at the Governor’s School. Danielle Brooks herself will host the event. A panel of distinguished judges will evaluate performances, and the top three winners receive cash prizes.
Black Women on Broadway Reading Series Spotlights Emerging Playwrights
Black Women on Broadway isn’t stopping with student programs. The organization also launched a reading series for emerging playwrights. This initiative gives Black women writers a platform to showcase their work.
The reading series provides crucial exposure for developing theatrical voices. It creates space for stories that might otherwise go unheard. This program runs alongside the monologue competition, addressing different career stages.
Submissions for the reading series opened immediately. Black women playwrights can apply through the official website. The application portal lives at www.blackwomenonbroadway.org/events.
Building Pathways From Classroom to Professional Stage
These two initiatives represent Black Women on Broadway’s dual approach to empowerment. The monologue competition nurtures high school talent at the beginning stages. The reading series supports writers ready to break into professional theatre.
Together, the programs create a pipeline for Black women storytellers. Young performers gain confidence and recognition through competition. Meanwhile, playwrights receive opportunities to develop and present their work.
Black Women on Broadway sends a clear message through these efforts. The organization wants the next generation to know their voices matter. From student performers to professional writers, there’s room for everyone’s story.
