Short plays, big stories take the stage

Five original plays exploring American history, identity and the people who shaped it will take the stage July 25-26 when May River Theatre presents its annual 10-Minute Play Festival.

This year’s festival, themed “We the People,” features “Collide,” “Beautiful Dreamers,” “Sewn Into History,” “Finders Weepers” and “Lady Balls.” Each play runs about 10 minutes, creating an evening of short performances connected by a common theme.

According to May River Theatre, the festival invited playwrights to tell stories inspired by the American experience, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Rather than focusing on well-known historical events, the call for submissions encouraged stories about ordinary people, overlooked figures, family history and moments of courage that helped shape the nation.

The annual festival gives audiences an opportunity to experience several original works in a single performance while giving playwrights, directors and actors a chance to develop new material on stage. Unlike a traditional full-length production, each play tells a complete story in about 10 minutes, allowing audiences to experience a variety of styles and perspectives during one evening.

Founded in Bluffton, May River Theatre is a volunteer-driven community theater that produces a full season of plays and musicals each year. In addition to established productions, the theater regularly provides opportunities for new playwrights and local performers through events such as the 10-Minute Play Festival.

The festival is part of May River Theatre’s 2026 season, which also includes productions of “Sweeney Todd,” “The Savannah Sipping Society” and “Young Frankenstein.”

For community theaters, short-play festivals often serve as an introduction to new voices while offering audiences a fast-paced evening of original storytelling. This year’s “We the People” theme aims to spotlight the people and moments that helped shape the American story, one play at a time.

Performances will be held at May River Theatre’s Ulmer Auditorium, 20 Bridge St. in Bluffton. Tickets are available through the theater’s website www.mayrivertheatre.com.