The Warner Theatre’s annual International Playwrights Festival

Press release

INTERNATIONAL NEW PLAYWRIGHT FESTIVAL AT THE WARNER CELEBRATES 13 YEARS!

Torrington, CT – The Warner Theatre’s annual International Playwrights Festival is set to captivate audiences once again with an inspiring lineup of new short plays. Taking place at the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre on October 11th – 12th at 8:00 PM, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable theatrical experience, featuring ten new works performed and directed by local talent.

Now in its 13th season, the International Playwrights Festival has produced over 130 plays from writers around the globe, showcasing innovative storytelling that resonates with audiences. "Plays are meant to be produced and enjoyed by audiences, as well as the creatives who bring them to life on stage,” says Festival Director Charlene Donaghy. “This festival brings magic not only to the stage but to the people who come together through this art form.”

“Audiences can expect to feel,” says Festival Producer Sharon Houk. “Whether that be to laugh or cry - theatre needs to be experienced live and our job is to make you feel many different emotions, think new thoughts. Join us for some interesting stories, great acting and productions that will spark future conversations in the times to come.”
Be the First to Experience Ten New Works
Across two nights, audiences will have the chance to experience ten thought-provoking new stories. From a group of college friends uncovering mysteries on a remote island to an older divorcee navigating the chaotic world of modern dating, the plays explore friendship, love, resilience, and the complexity of human relationships. Each evening features five plays, followed by audience talkbacks with the playwrights, giving attendees a rare opportunity to engage directly with the minds behind the stories.
Friday’s lineup includes:

• Concessions by Randall David Cook (New York) – A quick-witted comedy about two unlikely vendors with a battle of wits and egos.
• Seal Island by John Bray (Georgia) – A tale of friendship and closure, set on a mysterious, isolated island.
• Nuptial by Brigit van Gemeren (Minnesota) – A hilarious, rule-breaking escapade to stage a wedding in a Catholic church.
• The Last Leaf by David Graham (Georgia) – An adaptation of O. Henry’s classic story of hope, art, and life.
• The Matchmaker by Mindy Roll (Texas) – A lighthearted clash of generations, as a Gen Z dating coach takes on an older client.

Saturday’s lineup offers:

• The Perfect Job by Charlene Donaghy (Connecticut) – A reunion between old friends, navigating life’s toughest decisions.
• Coco and Other Mysteries of Lower East Side by Julie Weinberg (New York) – A touching look at friendship, grief, and healing.
• If You See a Hyena by Bara Swain (New York) – A powerful exploration of illness, love, and adaptation.
• Timber by Lindsey Brown (New Zealand) – A story about love, adventure, and risk on a cliffside.
• Judy and Dolly Wrap It Up by Alisha Christiansen (Oregon) – A heartwarming celebration of friendship, music, and resilience.

A Celebration of Global Playwrights and Local Talent

The International Playwrights Festival runs for two nights only, October 11th & 12th at 8:00 pm in the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre at the Warner in Torrington, CT. Tickets are only $17 and on sale now at warnertheatre.org or by calling the box office at (860) 489-7180.