Residency Program

About the Residency Program

BSN Theatre is dedicated to bringing new, previously unproduced works to life. We're looking for artists to join our residency program to work on their new project. As an Artist In Residence, you'll be provided lodging in Nashville, TN for up to 10 days to work on your project. During that time, you'll work with our team to host a reading or workshop to finalize your script. Then, you'll have the opportunity to watch your project come to life in a full-scale production.

The Application Process:

  • Review the FAQs below.
  • Submit your application and story concept, plus sample works, or your in-progress script.
  • Someone from BSN will reach out to you to schedule a brief, informal interview.
  • Meet with the creative team at BSN for a formal interview (30 minutes).
  • If accepted, schedule your residency!

What to expect during your residency

You'll arrive at your lodging just outside Nashville, TN. Your lodging will be a Tiny House or Guest House (depending on availability) featuring a small kitchen, private bedroom, bathroom, and living area, and outdoor space for a creative retreat.

You'll meet with your producer for your reading or workshop, talk through the schedule for the week, establish goals, and begin writing!

Throughout the week, you'll have the opportunity to meet with local actors who will read scenes for you, and local writers and directors who will help you craft your work.

You'll also have the opportunity to experience some of the local theatre with tickets to various performances from local theatre companies!

Your residency will conclude with a reading, hosted by BSN's founder, with local actors reading your work!

If you'd like to apply to our residency program, please fill out the form below!

Learn more about the program

Residency Program FAQs

What's included in the residency program?

Your lodging for up to 10 days in a Tiny House or Guest House outside Nashville, TN is included, along with a $50 per day stipend. Your travel to and from Nashville, TN is not included. We have found in the past it's easy to source donations for travel expenses. We'll also provide transportation to and from the airport should you be flying in for your residency.

What are the accommodation arrangements?

We have agreements with several lodgers in the area. You'll either be staying in a Tiny House or a Guest House. Both feature a small kitchen, private living room area, private bedroom, private bathroom, private entry, and outdoor space to connect with nature. You'll have your own set of keys and be able to come and go as you please.

Where will I work?

That's really up to you! Nashville has dozens of amazing coffee shops, if that's your vibe. Or, we can recommend cozy restaurants with great Wifi, or you can stay at your residence and work from there. We'll also show you some of the best outdoor areas to work from. Meetings with your production team will happen at coffee shops or co-working spaces, depending on availability. Your script reading will occur at our Founder's house in Bellevue, TN.

Do you pay your artists?

We do not provide a paycheck for your time in residency, but we do provide your accommodations and a stipend to off-set expenses. Should BSN Theatre move forward with your piece to take it to full-production, a royalty fee would be paid.

Do I have to have a play already written?

Not necessarily! We do like to see an outline or story points when you're applying for residency, along with previous completed works. If you have a script you've been working on and just want to work on that during your residency, that's great, too!

What types of content are you looking for?

Right now, we're looking for full-length plays of any genre. We're not currently accepting musical submissions.

How do I make my application stand out?

Tell us your story. We're looking for work that can change the world. Or just one person's world. We're looking to nurture playwrights on the brink of taking off. Tell us your story and who you are and what you want to achieve!

How many residencies do you give out every year?

That's a tough question! We don't have a set amount. It's based on the applications we receive and the works we read!