Should any company intending to present in the original category wish to contest the NH Theatre Awards criteria for original material, they may appeal to the NH Theatre Awards Executive Committee. The NH Theatre Awards Executive Committee's decision regarding eligibility of any original submission is final.

In order for the NH Theatre Awards to determine that a production is eligible in the "Original" category for nomination for a NH Theatre Awards, all of the following criteria must be satisfied.

An Original Drama/Comedy as defined by the NHTA must meet the following criteria:

1. The production must be, in the judgment of the NH Theatre Awards, a legitimate theatrical production
2. Work must be unavailable through any publishing house
3. Work must never have been produced in New Hampshire
4. Work must be original material -- not translated, adapted, or updated from an existing play

Additionally, an Original Musical as defined by the NHTA must meet the following criteria:

1. The production must be, in the judgment of the NH Theatre Awards, a legitimate theatrical production
2. In order for a production to be eligible in the category of Best Original Musical, it may contain elements that substantially duplicate elements of previously produced shows if, in the judgment of the NH Theatre Awards in each case, the duplicated and the original elements, in their totality, create a new musical
3. Factors considered when deciding if a musical is eligible for the Original category include but are not limited to: a significant portion of the production must include music or singing
   1. A majority of the music must be written by the creator or author of the play
   2. The play must have a recognizable story line with characters played by actors that meet the requirements stated in the Best Actor/Actress categories
   3. The songs and music must serve to propel the story and enhance character development
   4. The play must be unavailable through any publishing house
   5. The play must be having its first production in New Hampshire
   6. The play must be developed from original material. i.e. not translated, adapted or updated from a previously published musical. However, a new musical based on a published straight play or prose writings will qualify if it meets the aforementioned criteria.

NOTE: A sequence of musical numbers loosely connected by introductions, commentary, or vignettes with no concurrent plot does not qualify as an original musical. Musical revues, "revusicals" or concerts with "themes" are not considered to be original musicals.

The NH Theatre Awards will showcase the state's remarkable achievements and exceptional talent in locally produced theatre and will encourage, stimulate and recognize creative excellence and exceptional dedication among the players, producers, writers, directors and technicians who bring theatrical magic to the small stages of the Granite State.