Join Friends with the Write Stuff for its 3rd Annual Playwriting Festival of Original Works, a dynamic three-day celebration of new plays and the writers behind them, taking place April 24–26, 2026 at The Studio @ Theatre Tallahassee (1861 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303).

This year’s Festival brings together 22 participating playwrights from across Florida, showcasing a vibrant mix of emerging and established voices through staged readings, panel discussions, talkbacks, and interactive events. The Festival features talented local actors who will help to bring these scripts and characters to life. Audiences are invited to engage directly with the creative process, whether attending a single event or immersing themselves in the full weekend experience.

From short vignettes to full-length plays, the Festival highlights bold storytelling and fresh perspectives, offering a unique opportunity to experience new work in development while connecting with the artists who create it.

Tickets & Schedule
Flexible ticket options are available, including single-day, evening-only, and full weekend passes, with pricing starting at $10 and a full weekend pass available for $25.

https://theatretallahassee.org/EventsCalendar/

Participating Playwrights
Participating playwrights include organizing members Bev DeMello, Bert A. Mitchell, Michelle R. Nickens, and Danielle Wirsansky, alongside invited Florida playwrights Brian Davis, Deon Barksdale, Jr., Harrison Betz, Brian S. Brijbaq, Esq., Jason Q. Brookins, Paul Donnelly, Allison Fradkin, Noah Gonzalez-Hall, Caroline Hull, Lee Kitchen, Tahirih Lee, Marj O’Neill-Butler, Jeff Perlman, Jake Plante, Hal Presley, Byron Spires, Mattie Ward, and Liam Wirsansky.

About Friends with the Write Stuff
Friends with the Write Stuff—with current core members Bev DeMello, Michelle R. Nickens, Bert A. Mitchell and Danielle Wirsansky—is a dynamic collective of writers who gather regularly to foster creativity and support each other's craft. The group’s original members were inspired to begin taking their pieces to the next level through staged readings following a 2022 playwrights Q&A session hosted by Theatre Tallahassee. The following year, their first staged reading event was held at the Monticello Opera House. Friends with the Write Stuff provides a nurturing environment for playwrights at various stages of their careers, from budding talents to seasoned professionals. During their meetings, members share drafts of their latest works, offer constructive feedback, and brainstorm ideas. They also organize staged readings, helping members refine their work and gain exposure. United by a common love for the theatre, Friends with the Write Stuff is dedicated to promoting creativity and excellence in playwriting.

Proceeds from the Festival support the Theatre Tallahassee Youth Education Program.