D.C. award resonates in local theaters

Why should Orlando theatergoers care that the National New Play Network received an award for innovative leadership this month?

Because we benefit from this group’s important work.

Orlando Shakespeare Theater, a core member of the Washington, D.C.-based organization, has participated in the rolling world premieres of intriguing plays such as “Pluto,” “The Exit Interview,” “Charm” and “Shotgun.”

Both “The Exit Interview” and “Pluto” made my short list of the year’s best local productions, in 2012 and 2014 respectively.

“One-third of Orlando Shakespeare Theater’s mission is to develop new plays, and NNPN’s support and collaborative opportunities are an instrumental part of making that happen,” says Mark Routhier, the Shakes’ director of new-play development. The theater also hosted the group’s annual Showcase of New Plays in December 2008.

Mad Cow Theatre executive director Mitzi Maxwell says she keeps an eye on the organization.

“The New Play Network is a great asset to the nurturing of new plays,” she says. “We are not members, but we are certainly aware of many of the plays they champion.”

Familiar with playwright Lauren Gunderson, Mad Cow Theatre staged a strong production of her “I & You” shortly after the Network’s rolling premiere.

“We are grateful to all of the paths that led us to this play,” Maxwell says, “including NNPN’s work to elevate awareness.”