A broken clock, a burglar, a cleaner, a family inheritance and a games night – they’re all subjects that will be brought to life on stage next month when the region hosts the return of Lake Macquarie One Act Play festival.
Following the success of its inaugural showcase last year, the popular theatre competition is set to once again impress audiences with unique and new works that incorporate poetry, dance and spoken word.
The event will take place at Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba on Saturday 6 April and feature short, sharp, original plays, each less than 30 minutes in length.
Under the guidance of festival director Charlotte de Wit, playwrights, directors and actors from across the Hunter and further afield will have their talents put to the test, with an expert panel of judges deciding the winning entry.
“Having an event like this is incredibly important for the cultural fabric of our community,” says Charlotte.
“It provides opportunities to writers, directors and performers to present new work and reflect the voices of the local community.
“It is a celebration of what local artists have to offer and how engagement with the arts is incredibly important.”
The One Act Play Festival features both established and amateur independent theatre artists, writers and directors, from across Lake Macquarie and the Hunter, and national and local theatre groups.
Since its inception in 2023, the festival has uncovered fresh creatives within the community, and this year is expected to be no exception.
“I’m really thrilled about the variety of performances and stories that are being told throughout the whole festival,” explains Charlotte.
“Each play has such a unique voice and a different style of presentation that is really exciting.”
The festival will feature 13 original short plays in total and runs in two sessions at 1pm and 4.30pm, with a prize pool of $1900 on offer. Each session will feature different plays.
Categories include Outstanding Play Performance, Outstanding Actor and Youth Actor.
Tickets are $30 for one session, or $45 for both, with discounts for Lake Mac Arts members.
The One Act Play Festival is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.
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