Culver City Observer -

Center Theatre Group is now accepting applications for the 2013-2014 August Wilson programs – the August Wilson Monologue Competition (AWMC) and the CTG August Wilson In-School Residency Program.

Student applications for the AWMC and applications from educators to participate in the in-school residency program are due on October 1. Applications for both programs are available at http://www.CenterTheatreGroup.org/AugustWilson.

Center Theatre Group will be the Southern California host of the AWMC for the third year in a row. The national competition, presented by Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company and Jujamcyn Theaters, is now in its sixth year and also includes students from Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Boston, Portland, Seattle and Pittsburgh.

The goal of the program is to introduce high school students to August Wilson’s works and help the students to find their own creative voices.

Southern California students from all backgrounds and experience levels are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be in grades 10, 11 or 12 and reside in Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange, Riverside or San Bernardino Counties.

Pablo Lopez, 2013 Los Angeles Regional Finalist and winner of second place nationally said, “Do not cheat yourself of this opportunity because of fear or insecurities. Wilson wrote these characters about everyday people, so anyone can do it! As long as you have a heart that beats, you are fully capable of bringing a character to life.”

The preliminary auditions will take place at Center Theatre Group on November 9. The semi-final competition will take place on January 18, 2014, at Servite high school in Anaheim as a part of the California Educational Theatre Association high school Theatre Festival.

Twelve regional finalists will be chosen to participate in master classes at CTG and compete in the March 11, 2014, Los Angeles regional finals on the Mark Taper Forum stage.