National Newmarket Ten Minute Play Festival Announced

When looking for a live professional theatre, downtown Toronto or Stratford probably comes first to mind. But you will hear more about Newmarket as we claim our place in the theatre world with the second annual Newmarket National ­10 Minute Play Festival (NNPF) presented by the Newmarket Main Street BIA. This five-day festival will run from Wednesday, July 25 to Sunday, July 29 and all performances will take place on stage at Newmarket's Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street).

This second annual NNPF showcases new and original Canadian content grouped by themes in a concise, fast-paced, ten-minute play format. A total of 24 scripts were selected from submissions by Canadian playwrights from across the country and those living around the world.

"We are very excited to be hosting the National Newmarket Ten Minute Play Festival for the second year in a row," says Mayor Tony Van Bynen. "This year, we welcome 44 theatre professionals to Newmarket to perform 24 ten-minute plays under four themes. Come out and show your support for this cultural festival and experience all the vibrant, entertaining, thought-provoking and educational activities we have to offer."

The NNPF was founded in 2017 by Michael Halfin as part of Canada's 150 years of Confederation. Mr. Halfin, Artistic Director of the NNPF incorporated various ten-minute live plays that serve as a platform for diverse voices and perspectives of Canadian playwrights and theatre professionals.

There are four themes this year, each theme runs for one hour and costs $20 each:

off | BALANCE

In life's ledger, what we lose and what we gain always affects the balance. (Suitable for all ages)

Six plays that focus on the balance and imbalance of life.

social | ORDERS

Independence, interdependence. When there's no comfort in conformity, something's out of order. (Suitable for all ages).

Six plays that focus on social orders and disorders in society.

Past | DUE

Sometimes, we get what we've longed for. Sometimes, what we get is long overdue. (Mature themes; some LGBTQ+ content).

Six plays focus on our wants, needs and things we long for.

side | KICKS

Best buddies. Sidekicks? Boon companion or boot the companion? Relationships are so complex! (Mature themes; coarse language; some LGBTQ+ content).

Six plays that focus on the complexity of relationships and friendships.

For a full list of plays, schedules and times, please view the event schedule.

The NNPF cast and production teams feature outstanding talent. For example, Bikeface,one of this year's Toronto Fringe Patron's Picks, was directed by Mandy Roveda and designed by Christopher Pattenden-both of whom continue to weave their magic as part of this year's NNPF team.

Festival attendees (who have purchased a ticket to the NNPF) will get up to 20 per cent off at participating Festicilious restaurants and up to 50 per cent off with designated merchants along the beautiful historic Downtown Main Street Newmarket.

During the NNPF, visitors are also encouraged to view the exhibit Leah Denbok, Photographer of the Homeless exhibit. This photo exhibit is a collection of gritty black and white photographs and personal stories of individuals who live on the streets. This free exhibit runs from July 26 to September 12 at the Serpa Galleries inside of Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street).

On July 28, the festivities continue as the Town hosts Buskerfestival just steps away from our NNPF venue. Stop by and be amazed by incredibly talented and unique street performers who will provide a full day of entertainment for the whole family.

For more information on the NNPF please visit nationalplayfestival.ca. To purchase your tickets, visit newtix.com. Learn more about other events happening in Newmarket by visiting newmarket.ca/events.