Local Playwrights Showcases Their Talents in Beckwith Theatre’s 10-Minute Play Festival
Two Hours, Eight Plays, 100 Percent Local: Local Playwrights Showcases Their Talents in Beckwith Theatre’s 10-Minute Play Festival
The Beckwith Theatre Company is excited to put local talent front and center with their upcoming Local Playwright Festival. Works of five talented local playwrights will be brought to life by local actors and directors. Each “play” is approximately 10 minutes long and uses minimal scenery for quick changes.
The range of themes - from comedic to dramatic - will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. All are very entertaining and all will provoke thought. Whether a fan of thought-provoking drama or laugh-out-loud comedy, the festival offers an exciting lineup that will keep you coming back for more.
Whether you’re a long-time theatre lover or a newcomer, this fast-paced, engaging showcase offers something for everyone.
The festival is suitable for all ages, with no need for language or adult ratings. But, please know in advance, one of the eight 10-minute plays is more suitable for those over the age of 12. Think of this one 10-minute play as a PG-13 movie rating as it involves an unseen violent act that is meant to give the audience a reason to pause and think.
Where: Beckwith Theatre, 100 New York Avenue, Dowagiac, MI
When: February 7, 8, and 9, 2025
Showtimes: Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2:00pm
Tickets: $15 (available online at www.beckwiththeatre.com or by calling 269-782-7653)
The 10-Minute Plays and Their Playwrights
Each of the eight plays in the festival brings a unique perspective and style to the stage. Audiences can expect to laugh, think, and perhaps even shed a few tears as they experience the following 10-minute works (Not necessarily in the order being presented):
1. HOUNDED by Susan Taylor - A weary rescue dog arrives at his fourth home - and discovers a cantankerous cat in charge. Adjustment ensues.
2. LIVING LARGE by Linda Larocque - 4 Senior women meet at a coffee shop before heading to a casino but end up planning another way to live large.
3. IT’S JUST LUNCH by Ralph T Nelston - 2 Seniors in a lunchroom explore their routine, their boring life, and their future.
4. THE GREAT EXPERIMENT by Lisa Cripps Downey - A visitor comes to visit Carol, who sets into motion an experiment exploring what is real.
5. DREAM CAMPER by Linda LaRocque - An encounter at the registration desk of a KOA Campground leads to an exploration of life and their future.
6. HOUSEHOLD NAME by Ralph T. Nelston - Religious themed as 3 marketing professionals try to get a handle on how to make the client’s targeted person a household name.
7. SUPER SIX by Larry Nielsen - Five friends return to town and figure out what happened to their 6th friend.
8. QUIET by Larry Nielsen - 2 teenagers hiding in a closet. We have an idea why.
The Festival will kick off Beckwith’s 35th season. The Theatre is currently conducting a five-year capital campaign to raise money for needed building repairs and maintenance. Your ticket purchase directly benefits the Beckwith Theatre Building Fund.
About the Beckwith Theatre Company
The Beckwith Theatre Company is a cornerstone of the Dowagiac community. For over thirty years, it has provided exceptional theatre experiences to Southwest Michigan audiences. As a non-profit organization, Beckwith relies on ticket sales, donations, and community support to keep the theatre running and to offer opportunities for local talent.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.beckwiththeatre.com or call 269-782-7653.
