How to Pitch a Lesser-Known Play to Your Theatre Board

So you’ve fallen in love with a script no one’s ever heard of—and now you have to convince your theatre board to say yes. 😅

Pitching a lesser-known play can feel risky, especially when your board is used to safe bets and big-name titles. But don’t worry—great storytelling doesn’t need brand recognition, and you can win them over.

Here’s how to make a confident, compelling pitch that gets people as excited as you are.

1. Start With the Why

Boards want to know: Why this play? Why now?

Lead with your passion, but ground it in purpose:

Does it offer something your typical season doesn’t?
Does it reflect your mission or values?
Will it engage a new audience or community?

Example:
"This play gives voice to a story we rarely see on our stage—and it fits our goal of programming more diverse voices."

2. Frame the Familiar

Even if the title isn’t well-known, the themes might be:

“It’s a modern take on family dynamics like August: Osage County.”
“Fans of The Laramie Project will connect with this piece’s documentary style.”
“Think Noises Off, but with a queer twist.”

Give your board a reference point. Help them understand what the audience experience feels like.

3. Highlight the Practical Perks

Less famous doesn’t mean less feasible! In fact, many lesser-known plays have big production benefits:

Small cast = easier scheduling and lower costs
Minimal set = less strain on tech and design
Fewer licensing restrictions or lower royalty fees
Flexible casting = inclusive options

Show them how this play is a smart, scalable choice.

4. Back It Up With Buzz

If the play’s been produced elsewhere, pull out:

Positive reviews from festivals or regional theatres
Quotes from critics, educators, or audience members
Awards, grants, or notable workshops

No press? No problem. Share why you believe in it—and offer to bring a staged reading or video excerpt.

5. Bring Visuals or a Short Reading

Words on paper don’t always sell the story. Help the board see the potential:

Read a compelling scene aloud with actors or students
Show photos or short clips from other productions
Share your early design ideas or inspiration board

You’re pitching an experience, not just a title.

6. Offer a Safety Net

Make your board feel safe saying yes:

Pair the lesser-known play with a more familiar title in the season
Build an audience engagement plan (talkbacks, educational outreach, partnerships)
Commit to a modest budget or scale the production to your venue size

Bonus tip: Offer to lead the charge. Show them you’ve thought this through—and you're ready to make it happen.

7. **Tell the Story Behind the Story**

Sometimes what sells a script isn’t just the plot—it’s the playwright’s journey, the historical context, or the message.

Dig into:

Why this script was written
What it reflects about today’s world
What kind of conversations it will spark in your audience

If you’re excited, that energy is contagious.

TL;DR: Passion + Preparation = A Yes

Pitching a lesser-known play takes extra legwork—but when done well, it can lead to an unforgettable production.

With the right story, smart framing, and a little theatrical flair, you’ll give your board something to believe in.

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Use Playwright Co to discover under-the-radar scripts with big potential. Search by cast size, genre, or audience—and pitch your next play with confidence.

Tags: play selection, pitching plays, theatre board, directing tips, season planning, hidden gem scripts, lesser-known plays, community theatre