McKinney, TX — McKinney Repertory Theatre (MRT) is proud to announce Jordan Madison Teeling as the inaugural winner of the Schulte Prize for Young Playwrights for her original play, Book Bound. The award will be presented as part of MRT’s upcoming McKinney New Works Festival, celebrating new works and emerging voices in North Texas.

The Schulte Prize was established through the generous support of Rainer and Sandra Schulte to uplift young playwrights under the age of 25 in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. The prize includes a $500 cash award and a staged reading of the winning play, offering a meaningful opportunity for artistic development and professional mentorship.

Ms. Teeling’s play, Book Bound, was selected by the board of directors for its compelling storytelling, heart, and theatrical promise. The staged reading of Book Bound will take place on February 26, concluding the McKinney New Works Festival, which also features readings of Joan Torres’ Better Half Dead on February 12 and Tar-Tuff by Dr. Andrew Harris on February 19.

“The Schulte Prize is about encouraging the next generation of storytellers,” said Davina Gazo Stampfel, Executive Director of MRT. “Jordan’s work stood out for its heart and originality, and we can easily envision it being staged in our theatre. We are excited to stage a reading of the play and support her continued growth as a playwright.”

The McKinney New Works Festival is designed as a workshop-forward experience, giving playwrights the opportunity to hear their work aloud, collaborate with an active community theatre, and refine their scripts in a supportive environment. As the Schulte Prize winner, Teeling will have the opportunity to direct her staged reading, co-direct with a mentor, or work with a director, ensuring a tailored developmental experience.

The McKinney New Works Play Reading Festival promises to be an inspiring event for theatre enthusiasts, educators, students, and visitors to McKinney, further establishing our community as a vibrant hub for the arts.  

Audiences are invited to experience this workshop-forward festival, hearing new works in development and supporting the next generation of playwrights. Festival passes for all three readings are $30, with individual tickets available for $15 each.

All readings will take place at the Heard-Craig Center for the Arts.

Play Readings will be held on:  

• February 12, 2026 - Better Half Dead by Joan Torres (a newly revised version for MRT)

• February 19, 2026 - Tar-Tuff by Dr. Andrew Harris 

• February 26, 2026 - Book Bound by Jordan Madison Teeling 

For tickets, festival details, and more information, visit:https://mckinneyrep.org