ABOUT THE INITIATIVE

Mission Statement
The Orson Welles Initiative seeks to support early- and mid-career American artists engaged in the active creation of original works of theater, radio, film, and visual arts. American artists, especially those facing socio-economic disadvantages, will be especially sought after to support in the following ways:

Film Grants & Screenings

• Award grants to emerging American independent filmmakers

• Organize screenings of independent and student films

Stage Play & Musical Grants & Development Opportunities

• Award grants to promising American playwrights and musical theater writers

• Develop new American plays and musicals through table readings, staged readings, and full productions

Radio Grants & Development Opportunities

• Award grants for American excellence in scripted radio (AKA "podcast") plays

• Develop new American radio plays through table readings, staged readings, and full productions

High School Artist Grants

• Award grants to promising American high school students using art to explore social justice issues

The Orson Welles Initiative will always endeavor to honor the legacy of the great American storyteller Orson Welles, by uplifting and supporting American artists from all walks of life.

Orson Welles performing in "War of the Worlds" radio drama for CBS, October 1938.