EXIT Theatre Invites Submissions for Short Play Festival 2026

EXIT Theatre in Arcata, California, is calling for submissions for its upcoming **2026 Short Play Festival**. Starting **December 1, 2025**, playwrights are invited to submit original works that are no longer than **15 minutes** in length. The festival aims to showcase local, national, and international talent while providing a platform for the creative community in Humboldt County.

The theatre will accept the first **200** submissions, which must be sent via email to [email protected] as either a PDF or Word attachment. A committee will review these plays, selecting **12** for full-stage productions. Each chosen play will have the opportunity to be performed four times over two weekends, from **June 18 to June 28, 2026**. Performances will take place on **Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 19:00**, with Sunday matinees at **14:00**.

EXIT Theatre has a long-standing history of promoting original works, with Artistic Director Christina Augello emphasizing the importance of creative expression. “Original work has been a signature of EXIT Theatre for four decades, and we are excited to see what new creative ideas come our way,” she stated.

Submissions must be original plays that can be comfortably staged in the theatre’s **30-seat** space, which operates on a low-tech, low-budget model. The festival welcomes various theatrical performance styles, encouraging playwrights to include staging ideas such as set design, props, and music in their submissions.

While not a requirement for acceptance, playwrights are encouraged to indicate if they can provide any actors and/or a director for their piece. EXIT Theatre will cover all production costs for selected plays, and playwrights will receive a stipend royalty payment while retaining full rights to their works.

For any inquiries regarding the submission process or festival details, interested parties can reach out via email at [email protected]. This festival not only provides exciting opportunities for writers but also highlights the talent of local actors, directors, and technicians in the Humboldt County area.

As the deadline approaches, playwrights are encouraged to prepare their submissions and be part of this vibrant celebration of theatrical creativity.