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SC New Play Festival Expands with More Free Performances

Greenville, SC – The South Carolina New Play Festival, now in its third year, is stepping up its game with plenty of free events and exciting new additions. Theatre lovers, rejoice! This year’s festival promises a vibrant mix of performances and readings that accommodate all ages and tastes.

Broadway Stars in Greenville

This year’s highlight includes a cabaret performance by Broadway star and Greenville native Phillip Boykin at the Greenville One Center on August 11. Phillip will captivate audiences with his powerful presence starting at 7 p.m. Expect an evening filled with music, stories, and maybe some insider snippets from Broadway.

Free Events and Outdoor Performances

While many events are free, tickets are required for the public readings. So don’t wait! Visit southcarolinanewplayfestival.org to grab yours. A few readings are already sold out, but some seats remain up for grabs.

One of the best new features this year is the outdoor street-circus-style entertainment at Falls Park from 3 to 8 p.m. on August 10 and 11. It’s an engaging way to make art accessible to everyone, no matter where they’re coming from.

Festival Line-Up

Kicking off on August 8 at Centre Stage is a reading of a new play about Greenville blues legend Josh White. Penned by Donnetta Lavinia Gray, the play showcases White’s powerful music and storied life. The reading will be followed by a town hall to discuss his lasting legacy.

**Coming Up at the Festival:**

• **Public Reading of Adam Gwon’s “All the World’s a Stage” – August 9, 7 p.m. at Gunter Theatre**: This new musical features Broadway actors Andy Mientus, Jon-Michael Reese, Siri Howard, and Eliza Pagelle. It’s about a closeted math teacher coaching a student for a state drama competition. Exciting stuff!
• **“A Trip Around the Sun” – August 10-11 at Warehouse Theatre**: Don’t miss this dark comedy about a couple of parrot heads in Florida. Starring Mimi Wyche and Peter Van Wagner, it’s a performance that will have you laughing through tears.
• **“The Dark Lady” – August 10, 7 p.m. at Greenville Theatre**: This synth-pop musical explores a theory that Emilia Bassano may be the true author of Shakespeare’s plays. A must-see for those who enjoy historical mysteries and lively tunes!
• **“Stuntboy” – August 11, 3 p.m. at South Carolina Children’s Theatre**: Perfect for young audiences, this heartwarming story centers on a middle-schooler with the superpower to protect his parents and friends from bullies.

Insider Sessions will also take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on August 9 at Greenville One Center, giving attendees a rare chance to glean insights from theater-industry professionals.

Embracing the Local and Global

The festival prides itself on showcasing both Broadway and local talent to build a bridge between Greenville and the broader theatre world. It’s all made possible by the support of the arts community in Greenville.

Want to go?

What: South Carolina New Play Festival
When: August 8-11
Where: Various venues in downtown Greenville
Tickets: All events are free (some requiring tickets), except for the cabaret featuring Phillip Boykin
Info: Visit southcarolinanewplayfestival.org for more details.

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