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Redtwist's New Play Incubator

​Our goal is to build a new play incubator at Redtwist Theatre that provides ongoing play readings and development for aspiring Chicago Playwrights. The centerpiece of this initiative is the Twisted Play Festival, hosted annually at Redtwist Theatre. The festival will feature ten plays at various stages of development. Redtwist will support festival playwrights throughout the year with additional readings and workshops.​​

Development Stages

Headliner

The Totality of All Things

by Erik Gernand

This fully realized play is the culmination of the Twisted PlayFest new work incubator. The Headliner is fully produced: led by a talented director; performed by a cast of professionals; and realized by a team of incredible designers. Plays at this stage are World Premieres and Redtwist strives to connect the playwright with theaters around the country and see their script produced nationally. 

Staged Readings

Keep It Light by Toby Inoue

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ManCave by Caroline Kidwell

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Fiona by Zack Peercy

These plays are in their final stages of development before receiving a full production. Staged readings allow for a deeper collaboration between playwrights and directors, exploring how the play evolves as the actors add movement. This level also includes designers, to consider how costumes, props, and visual elements can enhance the script. Each year, one Staged Reading will be selected for a year of development and become the next PlayFest's Headliner. 

Stand Readings

You Sit Down and You Cry

by Ruben Carrazana

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Strange Fruit by Brandon Wright

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Murder in Residence 

by MT Cozzola

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Following by Ben F. Locke

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Deserted by Melanie Coffey

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Short Changed

by Jordan Gleaves

These represent the newest plays in the Twisted PlayFest, just beginning their development journey. Stand Readings pair playwrights with professional actors and directors to explore pacing and language of the script. Each year, three Stand Readings will be selected for a year of development and become the next PlayFest's Staged Readings.

Our Values:

  • This Project values Chicago Voices.

  • This Project values diversity and representation, including diversity of race, gender, sexuality, age, and ability. We intend to express this value at every level, from producers and readers, to playwrights and directors, as well as the performers on our stage.

  • This Project values playwrights as growing artists and commits to nurturing that growth through collaboration and feedback.

  • This Project values stories for NOW. The ideal play should tell us about the world we live in, speak to how we should live in it, and do so in an entertaining and engaging way.

  • This Project values Collaboration — the collective expression of the orchestra, over the singular effort of the soloist.

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