American Society for Theatre Research (ASTR) Sally Banes Publication Prize Grant

The American Society for Theatre Research (ASTR) Sally Banes Publication Prize celebrates outstanding publications that explore the relationship between theatre and dance. This award alternates between recognizing books and essays based on even and odd years, respectively. Eligible works must have been published within the last two years. The award includes a $500 prize and free conference registration, encouraging scholarly contributions to the field.

Note: If the online publication date differs from the publisher’s copyright date, submitters must choose between the two. Submitters may not apply for the same award with the same book in multiple years.
Purpose
This prize honors a publication (book or essay) that best explores the intersections of theatre and dance/movement in the previous two calendar years.
In even-numbered years, this award recognizes books published in the previous two years, and in odd-numbered years, this award recognizes essays published in the previous two years.
The Award
This award provides a $500 honorarium and complimentary conference registration.
Nominations
Nominations may come from the author of the work to be considered, an editor, a publisher, or any colleague in the field.
Evaluation
The winning essay will be judged based on:
Innovation in methodological approach.Critical and/or historical rigor.Potential for encouraging future scholarship that will strengthen exchanges between theatre and dance/movement.

Eligibility

Any independent, tenured, or untenured scholar who is a current ASTR member during this awards cycle is eligible.For the 2026 award, eligible books must have been published in 2024 or 2025. Essay nominations should be held for the 2027 award cycle.Digital submissions and hard copy submissions are both welcome.
You must be a member of this organization to apply for this award - become a member.