MACH 33 Call for Submissions

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Deadline: September 14, 2026

Theater Arts Caltech invites Greater Los Angeles playwrights to submit to two science-driven play development programs for the 2026–27 season. 

MACH 33: The Caltech Festival of New Science-Driven Plays supports complete, full-length plays through collaboration with Caltech and JPL science advisors, culminating in public staged readings and post-show discussions. 

MACH 33 Launchpad: The Caltech Early-Development Lab for New Science-Driven Plays is designed for works in the earliest stages of development, providing playwrights with a collaborative environment to explore and strengthen the scientific ideas driving their plays. Both programs connect playwrights with scientists from Caltech and JPL to deepen the scientific dimensions of their work.

Submission deadline: September 14, 2026. For eligibility requirements, submission guidelines, and complete program information, visit the MACH 33 website: https://tacit.caltech.edu/mach33/

Eligibility and Submission Guidelines (for both programs):

• Playwright must reside in the Greater Los Angeles area.
• Only one submission per playwright.
• Plays must not be published or professionally produced. (Previous readings are acceptable.)
• Plays must center on real-world scientific, mathematical, or technological themes.
• Maximum cast size of 8. Doubling is permitted; include a doubling plan with the cast list.
• Scripts must be submitted in PDF format, with standard formatting (12 pt font, numbered pages, character names above dialogue).
• Science must be integral to the story, not just metaphor or setting. 

See below for more on what we mean by “science-driven.”

Your submission must include:

• Blind Script PDF – Title only, no author name
• For Launchpad only:
• a brief summary of unfinished scenes or ideas for how you’re imagining the play might develop
• if the play includes music, you may also attach sheet music or demo recordings
• Playwright Info PDF – Title, author name, contact info, date of most recent revision
• Artist Statement PDF – Brief explanation of how a science advisor from Caltech or JPL could help you develop the scientific dimensions of your play (blind – no author name)
• Provide cast list and doubling plan (if applicable)
• Synopsis (max 200 words)

What is a science-driven play?

• Places real science, math, or technology at the heart of the dramatic conflict
• Features characters—often scientists, mathematicians, or engineers—whose work and thinking are central to the story
• Helps audiences gain a better understanding of how science works, how it impacts our lives, and how it intersects with broader human concerns
• Broadens the cultural imagination around science, challenging clichés or assumptions
• Grounds its content in real-world inquiry rather than speculative or science fiction (no aliens, time travel, or futuristic tech)

These plays are driven by curiosity, grounded in research, and open up new ways of thinking about science and society. A panel of readers from both scientific and theatrical communities will review submissions. We look forward to reading your work!

For questions or submissions email:
MACH 33: arden.e.thomas@gmail.com
Launchpad: coleremmen@caltech.edu