Do I have to pay for the retreat?

No. All expenses are covered. All you have to pay for is your travel to the designated nearest city. We organize all ground transportation from the airport/train/bus station to the retreat site.

Would I have to stay for the entire retreat?

Absolutely. Barring emergencies, everyone needs to arrive and leave the retreat location at the same time. This communality is an integral part of the experience. 

I have food allergies/restrictions. Can those be accommodated?

Almost certainly. We will ask for this information from you during the confirmation process. 

Can I expect to finish an already started project during the retreat?

No. Participants have learned over the years that coming in open to completely new work, without plans or expectations, yields by far the best experience. This is a rare opportunity to write in what may be a new way for you, using a new process of silence and the curated prompts and exercises. Trying to write something you already have in mind will conflict with that process and may prove frustrating and less productive. 

Is the retreat for playwrights only?

Traditionally the retreats have been for accomplished playwrights and will continue to consist mainly of playwrights. However, if you are an artist practicing in a related discipline, and feel this writing retreat is right for you, we welcome your application. 

Is there internet access at the retreats?

There is limited wireless internet at the Texas and California retreat centers which you can access if you truly need to. The idea is to refrain as much as possible though, and not to let anyone else know if you are using it. There is no internet connection at the upstate New York location.

Will I be able to Zoom/talk to my family during the retreat?

Not recommended. Generally speaking, committing to what our retreat leader Erik Ehn has called the “fellowship of silence” and disconnecting from your life has always been a part of what makes these retreats work. And there are practical obstacles. At all the locations, sound travels in the living quarters, and it would not be possible to have a conversation without breaking the silence. Lack of cell signals rules out taking a walk to talk to family, or makes it at best unreliable.  

We know this can be difficult for some, and it may be that if you are unable to disconnect for a week to ten days, this may not be the right time for you to do a silent retreat. All that said, if you’ve been invited to come and you’re concerned about this, talk to us.  

At all retreats, there is a phone number you can give to family in case of emergency, where messages will be regularly checked.

I have a physical disability. Are the locations accessible?

Green Gulch Farm common areas are accessible, as is one guest room. If you need accessible accommodations, let us know (email us) when you apply, and we will book it if it’s available. The Texas and Upstate NY locations unfortunately are not wheelchair accessible.