PUP Fest Script Submissions

Junior Players and Kitchen Dog Theater started Playwrights Under Progress (PUP) Fest in 2002 as a new piece of Kitchen Dog Theater’s New Works Festival. An annual anticipated event, PUP Fest is also a component of  the Dallas Playwriting Arts Collective (D-PAC), a partnership between Junior Players, Kitchen Dog Theater, and the Dallas Independent School District to provide innovative programs and opportunities for high school playwrights. The D-PAC partnership allows Junior Players and Kitchen Dog to serve an additional 1,000 DISD students through ongoing playwriting master classes throughout the school year.

PUP Fest was recognized in September 2003 with a Special Award from the Dallas-Fort Worth Theater Critics Forum and allows high school playwrights the opportunity to be mentored by some of Dallas’ most renowned playwrights. Each script that is chosen is paired with a cast of teen actors and directed by local professional actors and directors.

In 2021, all 6 playwrights were awarded scholarships thanks to a generous donation by John and Kathy Palter and Bob and Linda Appel.

Script Guidelines:

  • Scripts must be written by students in grades 9-12 (no more than 2 playwrights per submission).
  • Scripts must be short (between 10-15 minutes with a 10 page minimum) - Longer scripts will not be accepted.
  • Scripts must be typed in 12pt Times New Roman or Arial font (no hand-written scripts will be accepted)
  • Must have between one and five actors (character doubling acceptable).
  • Scripts must have official cover sheet with title, author's name, address, contact phone number, name of school, current grade, and availability
  • Eligible playwrights must be available for rehearsals and performances.

 

Thank you for your interest in submitting a script for consideration for PUP Fest 2026! Script submissions are officially closed. You can still be a part of this incredible festival by performing! 

 

Auditions are open to all current 8th - 12th graders, there is no cost to participate, and all skill levels are welcome! Submit a virtual audition today to be considered!

 

PUP Fest 2026 is a festival of staged readings where students like yourself perform scripts written by your peers! No prior acting experience is necessary - PUP Fest is a great opportunity for both those looking to further their performance experience and those looking to try something new! PUP Fest rehearsals will be June 1 - 6, 2026 (Monday 11:30 am - 4:30 pm, Tuesday - Thursday 10 am - 4:30 pm, Friday 12 pm - 5 pm, and Saturday 10 am - 4 pm). Performances will take place at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Dallas College - Richland Campus. No conflicts will be accepted during the run of the show.