Andrew A. Isen Prize at Goodspeed Musicals Application
We are excited to announce that the application process for the Andrew A. Isen Prize at Goodspeed Musicals is officially now open through February 14, 2025.
The $5,000 Andrew A. Isen Prize from Goodspeed Musicals is awarded annually to an aspiring musical theatre professional between the ages of 20 and 29 who has been affiliated with Goodspeed Musicals during the prior year to help further their pursuit of a career in musical theatre.
Eligible candidates must:
-be between the ages of 20 and 29 as of December 31, 2024.
-have had an affiliation with Goodspeed Musicals on a full-time, part-time, or seasonal basis during the 2024 calendar year in at least one of the following ways:
- Opera House Season Performer
- Terris Theatre Season Performer
- Member of Creative Team for 2024 Production
- Employee
- be actively pursuing a career in musical theatre.
How do I apply for the Andrew A. Isen Prize at Goodspeed Musicals?
Eligible candidates must complete the online application on the Goodspeed Musicals website. Paper and email applications will not be accepted. In addition to verifying eligibility requirements, you must:
- have displayed excellence during your affiliation with Goodspeed Musicals,
- provide your most recent résumé or CV in PDF format,
- provide a Statement of Goals addressing your short- and long-term objectives in the musical theatre industry,
- provide a Statement of Intent describing how you would use this $5,000 prize to benefit you in the pursuit of your career goals,
- two (2) letters of recommendation that address the applicant’s ability to succeed in the pursuit of the career goals supported in the application and
- photo identification (i.e. a copy or your driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or passport).
Who do I contact if I am unsure of my eligibility?
All questions about eligibility may be directed to npalazzo@goodspeed.org.
What is the deadline for the 2025 Andrew A. Isen Prize?
Applications are due via the Goodspeed Musicals website by midnight on February 14, 2025.
When is the prize awarded?
The 2025 Andrew A. Isen Prize at Goodspeed Musicals will be awarded on March 14, 2025.
How many prizes are awarded each year?
Each year, one $5,000 prize is awarded to the winning candidate.
How is the prize winner selected?
The winner of the prize is determined by committee. Applications are vetted first for eligibility and, secondly, by a separate team of five (5) Goodspeed staff members who will review and score them based on individual merit. This team of reviewers will rotate annually. Finally, the top five (5) applications will be reviewed by the Selection Committee, consisting of Goodspeed Musicals’ Executive Director, Mr. Andrew A. Isen, Goodspeed Musicals’ Line Producer, and two (2) additional rotating committee members. The prize winner will be contacted by Mr. Isen in early March of 2025.
If I apply for the prize this year but am not selected to receive it, may I apply again next year?
Any candidate that meets the above eligibility requirements may apply, regardless of past applications.
Must candidates be U.S. Citizens?
Candidates do not have to be U.S. Citizens.
How does the Selection Committee define excellence?
The Selection Committee defines excellence as contributing above and beyond expectations in your affiliation with Goodspeed Musicals. Goodspeed values high performers as well as those that demonstrate tremendous growth, and a desire to learn and take initiative in projects is also a mark of excellence.
What should be in my Statement of Goals for my application?
Regardless of whether your selected discipline is in a creative field (i.e. as a director, performer, designer, composer, etc.) or a non-creative field (i.e. general management, education, electrics, etc.), your statement should address your short- and long-term objectives in the musical theatre industry, your philosophical approach to your work, and how you intend to achieve your goals.
Is the prize money for the winning candidate considered taxable income?
Yes, any prize money received as a result of winning the Andrew A. Isen Prize at Goodspeed Musicals may be taxable to the recipient. Please consult your tax advisor.