The Atlanta Opera  has announced the return of its composition competition, the 96-Hour Opera Project.

The program is tailored specifically for composers and librettists from historically underrepresented communities. This year there will be six chosen teams will travel to Atlanta with completed 10-minute works based on a historical theme provided by story partner, Atlanta History Center.

Once in Atlanta, the composer and libretto teams will spend four days (June 8-12, 2023) collaborating and rehearsing with singers, directors, and creatives. The final showcase will take place at the historic Morehouse College on June 12.

The winning team will receive and split a $10,000 prize. The prize money will serve as the first installment of a commission to write a chamber opera for a future season at the Atlanta Opera. All participating artists are guaranteed a $1,000 honorarium.

Applications are open now through Feb. 1, 2023.

Last year’s winners included composer Marcus Norris and librettist Adamma Ebo for their project “Go On With the Wind,” which follows a Morehouse Glee Club singer who was invited to sing at a party celebrating the 1939 premiere of “Gone With The Wind.”