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La MaMa Umbria Playwright Retreat

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I am McKenya Dilworth. As the daughter of a playwright, I began life in the theatre before I even uttered my first words. Throughout my career, I've written a host of plays and other works that have been featured in venues from Gary, IN , Washington, DC  to Huddersfield, England and even New York City ! In short, the theatre gives me life, and IS MY LIFE!

In 2015, I applied to participate in the La MaMa Umbria Playwright Retreat in Spoleto, Italy and was accepted! Unfortunately, a variety of circumstances during that time resulted in me not being able to attend. Although disappointed, I trusted God's plan for my life and knew He would prepare me for the appropriate time and opportunity. 

Since then, I have weathered several personal storms and suffered losses, but thankfully, these hurdles ultimately taught me to never stop dreaming. Earlier this year, I applied to La MaMa Umbria once again and the received news on April 20, 2018 of my acceptance! Not only is it rare to be accepted to this esteemed program more than once, but it serves as proof that this time, it is meant to be! I am determined to walk into my season and live out a lifelong dream! I humbly ask for your support, and here's why:

A journey to Italy in August would place me in the room with theater professionals from around the world who boast incredible portfolios of plays produced Off and on Broadway and much more! Under the guidance of these experts, I would at long last be able to finish plays that are near completion and pitch them for consideration to be produced by theaters in the US and abroad. Most important, attendance to this retreat would allow me to gain the knowledge and experience needed to come back to my hometown of Gary, IN and pay it forward through the  annual PLAYFEST -- a platform for emerging and novice playwrights through The Morning Bishop Theatre Playhouse, Inc. 

I am asking for your help in raising funds to cover my tuition of $3,000 which includes lodging, food and ground transportation for the 10-day intensive retreat. The deadline of June 15th is steadfastly approaching so I didn't want to waste any time in working toward this achievable goal. I know with God's favor, and your support, I will be headed for Italy in August.

I do this in memory of my mother, the late Morning Bishop! I know she is cheering me on from heaven, and I am determined to make her proud!

Any donation amount is greatly appreciated, and I thank you in advance for believing in me! Ciao!

McKenya
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Donations 

  • Ernie "Lady Sax® Shelby
    • $20 
    • 6 yrs
  • Dramatic Reading Ticket Sales
    • $300 (Offline)
    • 6 yrs
  • Ron & Linda Jones
    • $50 (Offline)
    • 6 yrs
  • Trinity Baptist Church Home
    • $200 (Offline)
    • 6 yrs
  • Anonymous
    • $500 (Offline)
    • 6 yrs
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Organizer

McKenya Dilworth Smith
Organizer
Gary, IN

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