Scientists, Technologists, and Artists Generating Exploration

STAGE — Scientists, Technologists, and Artists Generating Exploration — is a Center within the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME). At the heart of STAGE’s mission is the belief that creativity and discovery thrive at the intersection of disciplines. By bringing together artists, scientists, and technologists, the Center fosters a space where experimental ideas can take shape, leading to innovative approaches in both scientific communication and artistic creation. This multidisciplinary environment encourages collaboration that challenges traditional boundaries, ultimately generating work that not only entertains but also enlightens, sparking curiosity and deeper appreciation for science in audiences of all backgrounds.

STAGE’s distinct research focuses on creating and developing new theatre, film, games, and other artistic endeavors inspired by science and technology. STAGE harnesses the power of storytelling, emotional engagement, and entertainment to translate complex scientific ideas into relatable human experience, promoting understanding of the sciences in the public arena through new forms of artistic expression.

GAMES

THEATRE

FILM

Current Projects

Quantum Theatre Project

The Quantum Theatre Project (working title) is a multimedia theatre piece that tells the story of a young woman balancing multiple cultures and identities.

Curiosity

Curiosity: The Making of a Scientist is a unique research project encompassing storytelling, science communication and filmmaking. The documentary-style web series takes us into the labs and lives of scientists to explore what motivates, and is involved in, choosing a career in science, what inspires scientific investigation, and the nature of curiosity itself.

Quantum Games

The Quantum Casino gives players an understanding of the various core principles of quantum science (superposition, measurement, randomness, uncertainty, entanglement, quantum key distribution) in entertaining, hands-on encounters. Instead of using words and equations to explain quantum physics, concepts are built into the mechanics of playing the games and their visuals. Each of the games is designed to create an engaging and memorable experience that affords first-hand interaction with one or more key aspects of quantum mechanics. Once a game is learned, so too are the quantum concepts built into it.