The Bard Review

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company's first-ever literary magazine publishing monologues and sonnets

Theatre is not possible without the playwrights behind the art we create on stage. We believe in the power of words, the power of storytelling, and the profound impact an artistic experience can have on an individual. In the spirit of William Shakespeare’s work, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company presents The Bard Review, their first-ever literary magazine.

The Bard Review was established in November of 2022, during the run of Little Women and National Novel Writing Month. The Bard Review is literary arts journal that publishes monologues and sonnets— celebrating the next generation of Classics. We look for writing that embodies our mission of holding the mirror up to nature, fostering empathy in our audience, and feeding the dialogue in the larger community. We are especially interested in publishing work by BIPOC and LGBTQ+ creatives.

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FAQ

What is Cincinnati Shakespeare Company?
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is a resident ensemble theatre company bringing Shakespeare and the Classics to life for all.
Learn more about Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s mission and vision here.

What is a literary journal?
“A literary magazine, often called a "lit mag" in writing circles, is a publication focused primarily on forms of literary and visual art not always found in mainstream magazines. A literary magazine may choose to publish lesser-known works by an established author, or the best work by a promising unknown. A typical literary magazine may also publish interviews, book reviews, short stories, poetry, visual art prints and essays.” - Michael Pollick, Language Humanities

How will this be published?
CSC will publish a PDF copy of the journal to download for free. A print issue may be available to order for a small fee, including shipment costs, though cost is TBD.

How long is the reading period and when will I hear back?
The reading period will last from December 1st through January 15th, depending on the capacity of our readers. Writers will be emailed about acceptances and rejections in late January.

TO SUBMIT

To submit for The Bard Review, please use the submission form available online below.

Note: please be sure to read all of the directions before submitting

For questions about our literary magazine, submissions, etc., please contact Kyrié Owen at [email protected] or by phone at (513) 381-2273, ext. 3205.

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