The Simons Center for Geometry and Physics, in collaboration with the C. N. Yang Institute for Theoretical Physics, hosted its annual Science Playwriting Competition staged readings, on Wednesday April 15, 2026, celebrating the creative intersection of scientific inquiry and theatrical storytelling.
Held in the Della Pietra Family Auditorium, the event featured live readings of the 2026 winning plays, each offering a distinct perspective on scientific ideas through character-driven narratives.
First Prize was awarded to Much Ado About Something by Jacqueline Sema Salit, a witty and intellectually playful piece that reimagines themes of existence and nothingness through a modern, science-infused lens. Drawing inspiration from both physics and classic theatrical forms, the play blends humor with philosophical inquiry into the nature of “something” versus “nothing.”
Second Prize went to The Force of Attraction by Ron Davies, which explores the parallels between physical laws and human relationships. Using gravity as both metaphor and mechanism, the play examines how unseen forces—scientific and emotional alike—shape connection, distance, and longing.
Third Prize, Amygdala, or The Rabbit by Matthew Green, takes a more psychological turn, delving into the neuroscience of fear and memory. Centered on the amygdala’s role in emotional processing, the play unfolds as a tense and introspective exploration of how the brain encodes trauma and instinct.
The competition invites playwrights from around the world to submit original short plays that incorporate scientific themes, ranging from physics and mathematics to neuroscience and beyond. Through these performances, complex ideas are transformed into engaging, human-centered stories that resonate with broad audiences. Since its founding in 2012, the Science Playwriting Competition has evolved from a local initiative into an international program that attracts submissions from writers around the world. This year alone, the competition received over 130 entries, reflecting its growing reach and reputation. The 2026 prize-winning playwrights—Jacqueline Sema Salit (Sedona, Arizona), Matthew Green (Champaign, Illinois), and Ron Davies (Ottawa, Canada)—underscore this global scope. Their works were brought to life under the direction of Steve Marsh, alongside a dedicated cast. Together, the annual competition and its culminating readings continue to highlight the power of artistic practice as a means of communicating and expanding the reach of scientific thought.
To the view the video of this event please visit: https://scgp.stonybrook.edu/video/video.php?id=7569
