The biennial Milken Playwriting Prize was created to encourage the writing of plays to be performed by teenagers, and includes a $2,000 prize and a full production of the play in November 2015 at Milken Community Schools. "Talented playwrights are becoming more aware of the need for large-cast plays that have a majority of female roles," says the award's Artistic Director, Robert Menna. "This is a wonderful opportunity for writers internationally to receive support and to work with teen actors."

Advice for Astronauts was chosen through a selection process involving dozens of readers including theatre professionals as well as school faculty, staff, students, and parents. For the next six months, playwright McGough will revise his play with support through readings at Milken and feedback from students and the director, in preparation for its premiere at Milken Community Schools in November, 2015. "Walt McGough's characters are drawn to the mysteries of the universe and long for a deeper connection to the ones they love," says Menna. "McGough writes with such a playful spirit, and his characters are often funny and tender in the same breath."