Stage Lights, Fresh Scripts
Wouldn’t it be cool to watch a Broadway show one day and say that you saw it before it hit it big? Well, after this summer, you might be able to do just that!
From August 7-10, all of Greenville’s a stage for the South Carolina New Play Festival, a celebration of brand-new theater that’s scripted to perfection. It’s four days of totally new, totally original plays and musicals—from laugh-out-loud comedies to heartfelt dramas. Whether you’re front row or watching from the wings, you’ll find something here worthy of a standing ovation!
At this festival, you’ll have a front row seat to fresh plays and musicals straight from talented writers like Aurin Squire, Rachel Bonds, and musical duo Michael Kooman and Chris Dimond. Oh, and don’t forget Merlin Returns, a quirky musical starring Piff the Magic Dragon–yes, the same one from America’s Got Talent!
What really sets this festival apart is the chance to see works in their earliest stages, performed by professionals shaping the future of American theater. You’re not watching shows that have been running for years—you’re catching stories in their very first run-throughs! Intimate venues, like The Warehouse Theatre and Centre Stage, are perfect for experiencing new stories up close. You’re close enough to catch every expression, every nuance, and every bit of energy the performers bring. It’s a rare chance to be part of a creative process as these plays take shape and come to life right before your eyes.
But this weekend’s not just about showcasing new plays. From a Broadway Cabaret starring Wicked’s Mary Kate Morrissey to artistic performances on the Outdoor Variety Stage, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention there’s also South Carolina’s Next Broadway Star, a competition where teen performers from across the state compete for scholarships to help further their theater career. Pro tip: bring tissues! These kids are seriously talented, and the hometown support is unreal.
Whether you're a theater regular or just in it for a night out downtown, this festival brings something special to our backyard. It's a celebration of stories, talent, and creativity. Come for the magic, stay for the music, and leave with a brand-new favorite play that just might make headlines one day.
Find more of South Carolina’s stages and stars at wwwguidetosouthcarolina.com/arts-entertainment!
