CATS Presents: 1st Annual Playwright Festival
An Unforgettable Celebration of AAPI Storytelling
On July 27, 2024, the Contemporary Asian Theater Scene (CATS) proudly hosted the AAPI Playwright Festival, a vibrant showcase of original works by Asian American and Pacific Islander playwrights. Held at the San Jose Stage Theater, this inspiring event brought together playwrights, actors, and theater enthusiasts to celebrate the power of storytelling and the richness of AAPI narratives.
The festival served as a platform for emerging and established AAPI voices, featuring staged readings, performances, and discussions that delved into themes of identity, heritage, and social change. From comedic reflections on cultural clashes to deeply personal explorations of history and family, each play left a lasting impact on audiences.
This year’s festival featured a remarkable lineup of playwrights, each presenting a unique perspective on the AAPI experience. The staged readings highlighted the depth and diversity of AAPI storytelling, sparking important conversations about representation in the performing arts.
Key highlights included:
• lotus lamps and baby teeth by Reed Flores
• In Memory by Victoria Chong Der
• Projector Projector by Anthony Doan
• Short, Little Green Men by Kausar Mohammed
• Signs of Life by Christina Ying
• Ryce (with a Y) by Conrad Panganiban
Highlight Reel
Beyond the performances, the festival fostered meaningful dialogue between artists and audiences. Post-show discussions allowed playwrights to share their creative process, inspirations, and the challenges of bringing AAPI stories to the stage. The event underscored the importance of amplifying underrepresented voices in theater and provided a space for collaboration and artistic exchange.
Festival Program
CATS extends its deepest gratitude to the playwrights, performers, volunteers, and audience members who made this festival a success. Your support helps create opportunities for AAPI artists and ensures that our stories continue to be told and celebrated.
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