About
The Policy Playhouse
About Us
The Policy Playhouse was founded in 2024 by Mary Clare Michael out of a dual problem: the lack of meaningful opportunities for emerging artists and the growing disconnect between policymakers and the people they serve. Based in the Pioneer Valley, The Policy Playhouse is a nonprofit arts initiative that uses theater and film to bring policy to life through human stories. By pairing artists with local nonprofits and community organizations, we turn complex issues into creative works that inspire empathy, understanding, and civic engagement.
​
Our mission is simple: to connect art and policy in ways that spark dialogue, elevate community voices, and foster lasting connections between citizens and decision-makers. We believe that storytelling has the power to bridge divides and make the abstract tangible — transforming data and legislation into something deeply human.
Each year, our signature Policy Playhouse Art Sprint challenges playwrights, filmmakers, and documentarians to create new works in just one week, inspired by real policy issues and guided by local nonprofits. The sprint culminates in a public festival in downtown Northampton, featuring film screenings, staged readings, live discussions, and opportunities for audiences to vote for their favorite pieces. The event also brings together artists, activists, and policymakers for an evening of shared creativity and conversation.
​
For artists, The Policy Playhouse offers collaboration, exposure, and a chance to make meaningful work that matters. For nonprofits, it provides visibility, engagement, and creative storytelling that amplifies their missions. And for audiences, it’s an invitation to experience art that not only entertains but also connects us — to each other, to our community, and to the policies that shape our lives.​
​
Our 2026 festival will take place February 28, 2025, in Northampton, MA.
​
As a student-led initiative with limited resources, we rely on the support of individuals and organizations who believe in the power of art to inspire positive change. Donations will help fund our festival, support local artists, and ensure that the event is accessible to everyone in the community.
The Policy Playhouse is committed to creating a space where citizens and policymakers can engage directly, fostering shared understanding and action. By blending art with public policy, we hope to ignite important conversations and create a more informed, connected, and empowered community.
Join us in using the power of art to make sure every voice is heard, and together, we can create real, lasting change.
Meet the Team
Learn about the team bringing this festival to life. We are always actively seeking employees, interns, and volunteers-- fill out the form to get involved!
Founder/Executive Director
Mary Clare Michael
she/her/hers
Mary Clare Michael is a current senior at Smith College with a deep commitment to community service and using arts and culture as a catalyst for tangible policy change. Having been immersed in both the arts and politics throughout her life, she is passionate about bringing her vision to life by fostering meaningful connections between the two, ultimately driving social change. Through her work, Mary Clare aims to leverage the power of creative expression to spark dialogue, inspire action, and strengthen her community.
Director of Communications
Maura Harty
any pronouns
Maura Harty is a senior and theater major at Smith College. They are an actor, director, and playwright. Maura first began volunteering with activist organizations her freshman year of high school, working with the ACLU and Plymouth Area Democrats to reach out to her community. Having grown up in a rural area, she understands how challenging it can be to know where to start getting involved. Maura is excited to combine her passion for political advocacy with her artistic work through the Policy Playhouse’s mission.
​
Gabrielle Bennett
she/her/hers
Team Member