top of page

SAINTS for Today

An Evening of Staged Readings

The Great Commission Theatre invites writers, artists, and storytellers to explore holiness through the power of theatre. 

Saints for Today is an intimate evening of staged readings featuring original short plays and monologues

inspired by the lives of the saints and the human journey toward God. Through story, voice, and guided reflection, this experience seeks to create space for encounter, renewal, and meaningful dialogue within today’s world.

Theme

How do the lives of the saints help us live our holiness today?

We are seeking stories that are:

  • Human and honest

  • Spiritually resonant

  • Reflective and emotionally grounded

  • Rooted in themes of struggle, grace, conversion, hope, or encounter with God

Submissions may include:

  • Stories inspired by the lives of the saints

  • Contemporary stories reflecting saintly virtue today

  • Defining moments of faith, doubt, surrender, or transformation

  • Monologues or scenes exploring the human journey toward holiness

What is a Staged Reading?

A staged reading is a simple theatrical presentation where actors perform with scripts in hand and minimal staging.

Rather than focusing on elaborate production elements, staged readings emphasize:

  • The power of the written word

  • Authentic performance and storytelling

  • Imagination, reflection, and audience connection

This format creates an intimate experience that invites audiences to listen deeply and engage personally with the

stories being shared.

Call for Submissions

Length

Works should be approximately 8–10 minutes in length (about 8–10 pages in standard play format).

Format

Submissions may be:

  • A short play

  • A monologue

Cast Size

Pieces should be written for 1–5 performers.

Staged Reading Format

Selected works will be performed as staged readings with scripts in hand and minimal movement.

Technical Requirements

Please keep technical needs simple and avoid complex staging or production elements.

Original Work Only

Submissions must be original, unpublished works that are free of copyright restrictions.

How to submit your play

  • Email a PDF copy of your script to scripts@greatcommissiontheatre.org

  • Include a brief synopsis of the play/monologue

  • Provide us insight into who you are with a personal biography

Important dates

  • Submission deadline: June 26, 2026

  • Staged Reading Showcase: August 15, 2029

  • Performance will be held at Whitley Event Center in San Antonio, TX

Inspired by St. Genesius

Presented during the month of the Feast of St. Genesius (August 25), patron saint of actors, playwrights, and artists, Saints for Today seeks to continue the call for artists to create works that reveal truth, beauty, and the presence of God through storytelling.

bottom of page