Duluth Playhouse Underground announced the return of its annual new play festival, Women in Theatre, taking place June 12 at 7:30 p.m. on the NorShor stage. The one-night-only event highlights the extraordinary contributions of women in theatre while inviting audiences into a dynamic, thought-provoking theatrical experience.
The festival features nine powerful new works written by women and staged by a talented cohort of local directors and performers. Together, the 2026 lineup of short plays delve into stories of transformation, loss, resistance and longing. From estranged friends under the gaze of a sinister presence to twins fractured by violence, and surreal, comic explorations of bodies, aging, desire, and identity, the work pushes form and tone in unexpected directions. Whether longtime theatre-goers or newcomers to new work, this is a chance to witness fearless artistry and experience live performance in a fresh, resonant way.
Audiences are encouraged to arrive early and explore the NorShor Theatre lobby, where local community organizations and artists will be tabling. This pre-show gathering offers an opportunity to connect with local creatives, learn about resources and initiatives serving women in the community, and celebrate the vibrant network of women-led work happening throughout the Twin Ports.
The 2026 Women in Theatre, New Play Festival lineup includes:
Daisy Knows Best by Patricia Lynn
Directed by Anika Thompson
Featuring Sarah Blossom, Karen Niedermier
Kaylee and Adelyn by Elizabeth Shannon
Directed by Lynnlee Johnson
Featuring Molly Fabian, Linnea Nordgren
Lemonade by Marjorie Williamson
Directed by Kendra Carlson
Featuring Cathy Berggren, Carrie Greer, Sarah Crowell
Selkie by Áine King
Directed by Kay Capasso
Featuring Leah Hulst
BooBoo Strikes Again by Aladrian C. Wetzel
Directed by AJ Valentine
Featuring Rey Paszak, Jaden VonBrethorst
Intergalactic Sapphics by Hope Campbell Gundlah
Directed by Kay Capasso
Featuring Shea Callaghan, Piper Bagley, Ella Goette, Henry Mattson
Parked by Marian Adewunmi Yesufu
Directed by AJ Valentine
Featuring Stephanie Williams, Lane Greer
Nothing but a lack of light by Erica Smith
Directed by Kay Capasso
Featuring Katherine Warmka, Phoebe Applegate, Sara Johnson
Nocturne by Regina E. Hinkley
Directed by Kendra Carlson
Featuring Lynnlee Johnson, Kaitlin White
—
Tickets are now on sale. To book seats, visit the box office at the NorShor Theatre Monday through Friday, 10 am-5 pm, call 218-733-7555, or visit:
www.duluthplayhouse.org/shows/2026-women-in-theatre-new-play-festival
Women in Theatre, New Play Festival
Duluth Playhouse at the NorShor Theatre
211 E. Superior St., Duluth, MN 55802
Schedule:
Pre-Show Gathering at 6:00 PM in the NorShor Theatre Lobby
Performances start at 7:30 PM in the NorShor Theatre
Post-Show Celebration at 10:00 PM at Blacklist Brewing Co.
Creative Team:
Festival Coordinator: Anika Thompson
Production Manager: Evan Kelly
Stage Manager: Bug Ramler
Props Design: Carrie Powers Greer
Sound Design: Travis Lee
Lighting Design: Robert Lee
