The debut of new plays is always an exciting time, and the Colonial Players of Annapolis is hosting a unique event dedicated to original storytelling. The organization’s 10-Minute Play Festival features eight new plays by local playwrights, giving audiences the opportunity to experience these world-premiere works. Each play is directed by a member of the Colonial Players community, taking audiences on adventures ranging from intriguing character studies to swashbuckling adventures. Through this distinctive format, the festival embraces creativity while highlighting emerging voices and the collaborative spirit of community theater.
The Recital (written by Vickie Yiannoulou), directed by Diana Tobin
A nervous violinist, Sam, is about to perform a Beethoven piece at a recital but contemplates backing out at the last minute. His supportive wife, Wanda, offers reassurance backstage. After watching his student, Myrtle, perform shortly before his own turn, Sam finds renewed confidence.
Herb Ziegler is charming as Sam, the anxiety-ridden violinist, making his frazzled disposition believable and entertaining. Joanna Tobin delivers a warm, encouraging presence as Wanda, and Amelia Lang brings a sweet, humble demeanor to Myrtle while expressing gratitude for Sam’s guidance.
An Obligatory Sex Scene (written by R.A. Pauli), directed by Dyan Alexander
Two screenwriters, Kaycee and Will, work for an independent film production company where actors’ contracts require sex scenes. Kaycee believes this material is essential to attract audiences, while Will questions whether it is necessary for success. As they debate the issue, the pair must balance opposing viewpoints with contractual demands.
Shannon Benil (Kaycee) and Jack DuPree (Will) are highly entertaining as they navigate their disagreement. Benil hilariously describes her elaborate visions, while DuPree questions the need to inject this content into classic material. Together, they create lively comedic chemistry.
Executive Dysfunction (written by Terry Krage), directed by Marela Kay Minosa
This imaginative depiction of how ADD and anxiety affect executive functioning offers a compelling window into an unseen internal world. Humanizing these forces brings invisible distractions, racing thoughts, and emotional hurdles to the forefront while balancing humor with insight.
Felicity Alexandra (The Body), Eliza Geib (Anxiety), and Lin Kubit (ADD) bring this concept to life through expressive physical comedy and sharp comedic timing. Their performances illustrate complex internal battles while making these experiences accessible and engaging.
A Visitor to Your Planet (written by Stephen Evans), directed by Julie Manthey
When an alien arrives on Earth, she encounters a kind man on the seashore, and they embark on a journey of mutual understanding. As he introduces her to simple pleasures, including coffee, pizza, and sunsets, she discovers the joys of everyday life. Their connection demonstrates how friendship and understanding can emerge across vast differences.
Camille Jones is delightful as the Alien, bringing an otherworldly disposition and childlike wonder to the role. William F. Rowel exudes warmth as the Man, gently introducing the Alien to her new environment while delivering humor through their initial misunderstandings.
Defiant Grace: A Revolution in the Margins (written by Latisha Jones), directed by Lynne Streeter Childress
This historical reimagining envisions a fictional meeting in France between Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman belonging to Thomas Jefferson, and celebrated poet Phillis Wheatley. Exploring what might have transpired had they crossed paths, the play presents an encounter shaped by admiration, wisdom, and hope. Sally is awestruck by Phillis, whose work she admires, while Phillis embraces a nurturing role and encourages her.
Amelia Lang is remarkably poised as Sally, seamlessly delivering dialogue in both French and English while conveying admiration and reverence. Najah Bayyan brings warmth and wisdom to Phillis. Together, Lang and Bayyan create a dreamlike vision of what might have been.
Lunch Meet (written by Martin Egna), directed by John Halmi
A married couple, Allie and Ben, meet for lunch at a local diner, only to discover that the conversation serves up far more than the meal itself. As they share hidden thoughts, experiences, and reflections on raising their children, they gain unexpected insight into themselves and each other.
Melanie Gordon (Allie) and Jack DuPree (Ben) deliver riveting performances. Gordon conveys Allie’s frustration with her husband’s childish antics, while DuPree brings a delightfully free-spirited charm to Ben. Together, their contrasting portrayals heighten the humor and tension of the date.
Riddance (written by Roy Davimes), directed by John Purnell
During a courtyard meeting, a Man (William F. Rowel) and a Woman (Rebecca Kyler Downs) discuss a potential television project. The Man is producing a series centered on executions and the death penalty and attempts to persuade the Woman to participate. As a political figure, she recognizes the risk to her reputation, creating a battle between ambition and principle.
Rowel and Downs navigate this conflict with ease, creating palpable tension. Rowel presents his vision with a businessman’s polished veneer, while Downs conveys skepticism and poise as she protects her reputation. Both performers deliver their dialogue with precise inflection, emphasizing the complexity of the conflict.
All Hands (written by Fish Stark), directed by Davis Wootton-Klebanoff
Ahoy! A trio of disillusioned actors spends their days performing aboard the Jolly Roger pirate cruise in Ocean City, Maryland, navigating the unpredictable realities of live entertainment. Evy, Jayden, and Steve contend with repetitive routines, young audience members, and unscripted surprises. The play offers an affectionate tribute to the chaos and rewards of live theater.
Camille Jones (Evy), Macrae Smith (Jayden), and Herb Ziegler (Steve) are hilarious as the swashbuckling trio. Jones conveys Evy’s frustration with Jayden’s antics, while Smith entertains with an exuberant pirate voice and themed humor. Ziegler brings mischievous energy to Steve, enthusiastically drawing his castmates into a publicity scheme.
One of the most important aspects of theater is celebrating achievements and creativity, and the 10-Minute Play Festival pays tribute to this ideal. The Colonial Players of Annapolis have created a showcase of storytelling, collaboration, and talent. This eight-play journey provides a platform for local artists while offering an engaging theatrical experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these diverse worlds and discover the creativity, passion, and imagination that make this festival a special highlight.
Running Time: Two hours and 15 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
10-Minute Play Festival plays through July 26, 2026 (Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m.), at The Colonial Players of Annapolis, 108 East Street, Annapolis, MD. Tickets ($10) can be purchased online, in person at the Colonial Players box office, or by calling the Box Office at 410-268-7373.
