Call for Submissions: The Policy Playhouse 2025 Arts Festival
About The Policy Playhouse
The Policy Playhouse is a new arts initiative that seeks to bridge the gap between policymakers and the people they serve. We aim to use the power of art to spark meaningful conversations around critical social and political issues. In March 2025, we’ll host our first arts festival in Northampton, Massachusetts, where local artists and playwrights will present original works that tackle pressing local policy issues. These works will be performed by community members for both the public and local politicians, fostering dialogue and action.
Submission Guidelines
We’re currently seeking playwrights and interdisciplinary artists to submit their play scripts or creative projects for consideration. Your work should address a local policy issue in the Pioneer Valley, but you’re welcome to choose the issue you feel most passionate about. Some suggested topics include:
Education: Budget cuts and staff layoffs in Northampton schools (Contact Support Our Schools SOS for more info)
Housing: The housing crisis and gentrification in the Pioneer Valley (Contact Springfield No One Leaves for more info)
Immigration: ICE’s recent involvement in the area and Northampton/Amherst’s stance on supporting migrants
We accept both original works and adaptations (e.g., Shakespearean plays that are in the public domain). Plays can be any length or format.
Submission Process
Completed Scripts: Submit your finalized play manuscript through the provided link.
Proposals: If your idea is still in development, you can submit a proposal to collaborate with us in bringing it to life.
Submission Deadline: January 20, 2025.
We also welcome interest forms for those who want to contribute to the festival in a more low-commitment role, such as performance, tech, or volunteering. Interest forms can be submitted on a rolling basis via our website.
How to Submit
Submit your play script or proposal here.
Submit an interest form for performance, tech, or volunteering here.
For questions or more information, visit our website or email us at thepolicyplayhouse@gmail.com.
We encourage submissions from anyone in the Pioneer Valley, including 5C students and staff!
Thank you for helping us create a space for art that inspires action and fosters dialogue.
