Proposal Guidelines

Below are two sets of guidelines for (1) proposing to direct a show in the HopKins Black Box and (2) proposing to produce the annual Across Disciplines: Performance Research and Response program. All proposals are reviewed by the current HopKins Black Box Advisory Board, which consists of graduate and undergraduate student representatives, the HopKins Black Box Manager, and a faculty representative, all of whom specialize in the area of performance studies. An equal consideration of the following factors guides the review of the proposals.

  • The clarity and specificity of the applicants description of the proposed show
  • The applicants academic standing
  • The academic year of the applicant
    Note: except for performance studies faculty, proposals are not granted blindly based on seniority
  • The directing/performance experience of the applicant
  • The applicants past involvement in performance studies courses or the HopKins Black Box season
  • If the proposed show meets a performance studies focus
    i.e., the only type of show we urge applicants not to submit is a realistic play that the applicant plans to stage as written
  • The fit of the proposed show in the emerging season
    i.e., we aim for variety in content, and balance as regards the scale and scheduling of the shows


Please Note: A faculty advisor will be assigned to all undergraduate directors. The advisors role is to provide a helping hand as needed. E.g., the advisor might review your schedule, clarify administrative matters, double-check ad copy, steer you to necessary resources, offer suggestions regarding adaptation and staging choices.