On Monday, March 6, word came that Doubtful Provenance, the full-length stage play by award-winning playwright Kevin Rush, has been selected as a semi-finalist for the Ashland New Plays Festival 2017, to be held in Ashland, Oregon, October 15 through 22. Only six percent of the submitted scripts advanced.

Here’s how the ANPF website describes the festival: “Founded in 1992 and managed by a volunteer board of directors, Ashland New Plays Festival is a nonprofit organization that encourages playwrights in the creation of new works through public readings.”

“ANPF has given scores of playwrights from far and wide the forum to have their fledgling works read before a supportive, knowledgeable, and insightful audience.”

“[I]n October, the winning playwrights are in residence for an entire week. During this fertile time, they talk with other playwrights, receive counsel from our host playwright, and have ample opportunities to discuss their plays in informal social settings.”

Having made it through the initial round, where 94 percent of scripts were eliminated, Doubtful Provenance now goes to the full reading committee. Final notifications go out in July. Winner received free room and board and a $1,000 stipend to cover travel expenses to the festival. Mr. Rush, who has never been to Ashland, and hasn’t even been to Oregon since 1994, would welcome the opportunity to attend. Fingers crossed.