A Reading Series where Science is Center Stage
Science@Play readings are lightly staged readings held in the intimate embrace of our studio in Downtown Livermore. Actors carry scripts, but may still be staged by the director, with costume pieces, a few hand props, and minimal furniture. The post-show discussion with the cast is as much a part of the event as the show. For the newly commissioned piece, the director and playwright are generally on hand to share insight into the play development process.
Season 2024/25
Announcing SPARC’s Science@Play Playwright
Mildred Inez Lewis
Mildred Inez Lewis is a writer and director for theater, film, and the digital space. As a member of the Dramatists Guild, Lewis writes for Antaeus Theatre Company, Ensemble Studio Theatre-LA, PlayGround-LA, and Towne Street Theatre. Lewis is also an associate artist with Rogue Artists Ensemble. After graduating from Oberlin College, she began as a director in the Actors Studio and trained at EST and HB Studios. Lewis earned an MFA from UCLA’s film school where she won a Samuel Goldwyn screenplay award. Her plays have been published by Applause Books, Broadway Play Publishing. LazyBee (UK), Breathe Fire literary magazine, and elsewhere. Lewis’ Recent honors include the AGE Legacy Award (2023), Samuel French Off-Off Broadway Festival finals (2022), and the L.B. Williams Award at New Circle Theatre (2021). Lewis is currently an Assistant Professor at Chapman University in Irvine, CA.
“When I’m not writing or panicking about deadlines, I do comedy. My writing is provocative and tends to the dark and political. Sketchwriting and improv have literally lightened my spirits and, hopefully, leavened my work. Performing virtually has been rewarding in ways that I would never have expected after working behind the scenes for so long. It has given me a new appreciation for how life-giving and flat-out joyful our work can be. “
Science@Play is partially funded by:
- Alan and Mary Burnham
- Dave and Patricia Munro
In Memory of Professor Leon Morris Keer,
a lover of scientific inquiry, the arts, and good wine
“Art illuminates. This is a moment for arts organizations to enlighten their audiences and contribute to a global narrative by showcasing the minds and spirits of the folks in the middle of today’s scientific breakthroughs. By commissioning BIPOC writers to create characters for these stories, we uplift people of color as leaders in the scientific community.” — Lisa A. Tromovitch, Founding Artistic Director
All performances @SPARC Studio, 2172 Railroad Avenue. Masks recommended, but not required.