Star Search Scriptwriting Competition
Encouraging writers of all ages to engage their skill in worship and evangelism!
Are you a writer?
You might not be a published author yet, but we know you’ve got some ideas brewing! So, get those ideas down on paper and submit a script to the Scriptwriting Competition! The winning script(s) will be featured as the test pieces for Divisional and Territorial Star Search 2026. Did you catch that? The winning scripts will be brought to life by the territories’ finest actors, and you’ll be able to see your words in 3D! Simply follow the script formatting, content rules, and the requirements below and make your submission by September 30, 2025. All ages and skill levels welcome!
All submissions are due September 30, 2025. Arts Ministries will read through all submitted scripts and select the top three. Writers of the top three submissions can expect to receive feedback from Arts Ministries regarding any changes to be made to best serve the scene, the needs of the actor(s), and director(s). If changes are made and submitted by a secondary deadline to the satisfaction of Arts Ministries, the winner of the Star Search Scriptwriting Competition will be announced and they will have their original script featured at next year’s Star Search with nominal compensation of $1.00. Their name will be included on the script, and they will be given a moment of acknowledgement at the Territorial Star Search Awards.
Before clicking submit, make sure you’ve completed the following:
- Reviewed the section, “Formatting Requirements.”
- Reviewed the section, “Script Guidelines.”
- Reviewed the requirements for Group A&B or Monologues.
Signed and acknowledged the “The Salvation Army’s Assignment of Copyright Agreement” on the application.
Rules & Requirements
- Document Settings: 12pt font, Times New Roman, single-spaced.
- Line 1: Original title and proposed Star Search level. For example: Group A, Group B (in order from youngest to oldest). Monologue Level 1, 2, 3, 4 (in order from youngest to oldest.)
- Line 2: Writer’s name.
- Line 3-5: Brief overview/blurb noting tone, content, and writer’s comments.
- Must NOT use: imitation of cultural accents, public figures, political commentary, expensive/elaborate props/ costumes, stereotypes or generalizations about groups of people, shaming, language that stigmatizes or makes light of mental, emotional or physical disabilities/conditions.
- Must be original written work. All submitted scripts will be reviewed and evaluated for the use of AI assistance.
- Must include at least one line or verse of quoted scripture.
- Must be based on biblical truths and/or Salvation Army doctrines.
- Must include general stage directions/prompts for novice directors/performers. (Performers do not need to adhere to these prompts.)
- Must be gender neutral.
- Must be in English or Spanish. All scripts will be translated into both languages by Arts Ministries. Please avoid the use of play-on words, slang, or rhyming for best results.
- Must be 3-4 pages in length for an estimated 3-4 minute performance.
- Minimum of four character/voices with the possibility of expanding to add actors. (For example: Explore lines where everyone speak together, leaving room for additional actors to participate.)
- Must be 1 page in length for an estimated 3 minute performance.
- Must be character-based.
FAQ’s
No! We want to receive submissions from all ages!
