2023 COLORADO NEW PLAY SUMMIT: A CELEBRATION OF THE WRITTEN WORD

BY CYNTHIA BARNES

IIn the beginning of every play — before the set, the costumes, the makeup — are the words that make the story, the story that ultimately becomes the play. Lovers of words and the stories they create converged at the Helen Bonfils Theatre Complex on February 25 and 26 for a celebration of creativity and the power of the written word to inspire, illuminate, and entertain.

Now in its 17th year, the Colorado New Play Summit showcases the works of four promising young playwrights, read by seasoned actors and guided by some of the country’s most talented directors. Beloved by local enthusiasts, the event has also become a destination for industry professionals from across the nation eager for a glimpse of emerging talent and a chance to spot plays that may become the ‘next big thing.’

The four 2023 Summit plays are the reservoir by Jake Brasch; Polar Bears, Black Boys & Prairie Fringed Orchids by Vincent Terrell Durham; Joan Dark by Christina Pumariega, and The Suffragette’s Murder by Sandy Rustin.

This year’s plays grapple with addiction and police abuse, faith and feminism — potentially dark subjects that are nonetheless lightened with humor and lifted up by hope.

Artistic Director Chris Coleman couldn’t be more pleased with both the Summit’s plays and their reception. “It was heartening to see how much the writers were willing to try and tackle in their four days of rehearsal,” he says. “I particularly enjoy hearing the audience’s thoughts after the readings, as it proves super informative in our decision making about future productions.”

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