Submit to Annex Theatre

2026 RFP for 40th Season (2027)

Annex Theatre is a democratic collective of theatre artists dedicated to creating bold new work in an environment of improbability, resourcefulness, and risk.

Our Request for Proposals (RFP) is now open!

Submit your complete script or script-in-development by April 30 to be part of Annex Theatre’s 40th season of bold new work!

About Annex

Annex Theatre has been producing live theatre since 1986 with an eye for big, cheap spectacle. For nearly 40 years, we’ve produced brand-new plays, ensemble-generated non-linear spectacles, radical interpretations of classic texts, and dynamic solo shows. For our 40th season in 2027, we’re requesting proposals for fully-produced mainstage productions and staged readings of works in progress (WIP).

Annex Staff handles casting, marketing, rehearsal and pre-production logistics, and performance staffing. All Annex productions are live streamed and made available to watch on demand. 

Types of Submissions we are looking for:

Mainstage:

Full world-premiere scripts (can have been workshopped) and devised generative ideas, typically structured as two acts with an intermission. If selected, you will have the opportunity to develop your work through self-directed workshops and/or table work or a structured devised process. Scripts for mainstage productions can be submitted with or without a director. 

Works in Progress (WIP):

Staged readings with optional talkback and/or feedback collection for scripts currently in development, or generative ideas for devised work. Based on the preference of the playwrights and directors, audiences can provide feedback during a talkback or online request form. We have formalized this development process to include a possible MainStage production for the following season which we decide after all Works in Progress for the season have had their public performances.

Something Else:

Do you have another idea for a proposal that would fit outside of the typical mainstage or WIP slot? We want to hear it! We are open to proposals for one-off ideas like showcases and recurring monthly events. 

What makes a strong proposal?

• Details about your experience with new work

• Describe how you approach development in theatre

• Proposing with anyone who is attached to your project

• Tell us what makes your work risky, bold, and new

Our values

As producers and artists, we intentionally uphold a specific set of values and insist that the work we produce upholds these values as well:

• World-premiere (We like Pacific Northwest premieres too)

• Big, cheap theatre (Minimal budget but BIG spectacle)

• Relevance to modern themes and issues

• Risk (Would this play be produced anywhere else right now?)

• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for those onstage and off

• Opportunities for Annex company members to direct, design, perform, and develop as artists

• Including a pay-what-you-can (PWYC) ticketing option for all performances to increase access 

If you believe your project aligns with these values, we strongly encourage you to submit a proposal!

Deadline to submit is Thursday April 30th. 

Stipends and Rights

Annex is entirely volunteer-run. We currently offer a stipend of $250 to mainstage production playwrights and $150 to all other participants. All participants in staged readings receive a $20 stipend. Stipend amounts for devised works and other proposals will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Playwrights retain the rights to their work through and after the production process. Annex playwrights have had their work remounted, published, and produced in alternative formats after their life at Annex. We request that artists keep an acknowledgement to Annex Theatre in the production notes. 

Ticketing

Sliding-scale ticket prices start at $5 for mainstage and $0 for WIPs. Mainstage live stream tickets are $10 (single-viewer) and $20 (watch party), and WIP live stream tickets start at $0 (suggested $10).

Space Specifications

• Located up two flights of stairs (no elevator access)

• Max. audience capacity is 86 (with live stream equipment)

• Two gender neutral bathrooms are located up two steps

• Stage measures 24' x 24' (Backstage area is 6' deep)

• Lighting grid is 10' high

A Note on Safety and Access

Annex Theatre is located up two flights of stairs in an urban neighborhood with an active nightlife scene. We apologize for any inconvenience this creates for artists to be able to access our space. Rehearsals for both mainstage and WIPs will occur at the theatre. In the event of a scheduling conflict, Annex Theatre will secure an alternative rehearsal location.