This summer, the Contemporary American Theater Festival will once again light up stages in Shepherdstown, West Virginia—the picturesque cultural hub nestled just 90 minutes from Washington, DC. Running from July 11 through August 3, this celebrated festival promises another season filled with groundbreaking works, dynamic performances, and bold narratives that continue to shape the American theater landscape.
A Renowned Platform for New Voices in Theater
Started in 1991, Contemporary American Theater Festival remains committed to its mission of championing new plays. Recognized nationally as one of the premier incubators for innovative theatrical storytelling, the festival takes pride in bringing fresh voices and innovative perspectives to the stage. Each year, playwrights from across the country use this platform to challenge conventions, tackle urgent social issues, and reimagine the boundaries of theater.
Ed Herendeen, the Contemporary American Theater Festival’s founder, described the festival as “an extraordinary odyssey to discover and create the future of the American Theater.” This ethos has earned the Contemporary American Theater Festival a reputation as a cultural jewel, attracting theater lovers from around the region and beyond.
This Year’s Not-to-Miss Lineup
The 2025 Contemporary American Theater Festival will present five adventurous new works, each taking a bold approach to storytelling and contemporary issues:
- “Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular” by Lisa Sanaye Dring
A visually inventive play fusing stunts, puppetry, and cinematic illusions to tell the story of two queer Hollywood stunt performers navigating love, ambition, and identity in a world shaped by risk and spectacle.
- “Magdalene” by Mark St. Germain
A thought-provoking reimagining that explores faith, memory, and reconciliation as Peter reconnects with Mary Magdalene nearly two decades after the crucifixion of Jesus, provoking questions about legacy, belief, and truth.
- “Kevin Kling: Unraveled” by Kevin Kling
Playwright and storyteller Kevin Kling brings his unique blend of humor, music, and storytelling to the CATF stage, offering an autobiographical journey that weaves personal stories with broader reflections on resilience, disability, and hope.
- “Side Effects May Include…” by Lisa Loomer
A timely and incisive examination of mental health and modern medicine, this play interrogates the complex realities of psychiatric medication, exploring the balance between help and harm in an era of pharmaceutical reliance.
- “Did My Grandfather Kill My Grandfather?” by Cody LeRoy Wilson
An intimate exploration of family history and identity, this autobiographical piece follows a Vietnamese American protagonist as he uncovers the mysteries of his ancestry and confronts the conflict between heritage and assimilation.
With this lineup, the Contemporary American Theater Festival continues to showcase powerful new stories and elevate diverse voices, reinforcing its role as a leader in contemporary American theater.
Why CATF Matters to the Cultural Landscape
Beyond offering a stage for bold new works, the Contemporary American Theater Festival serves as a powerful engine for the region’s arts community. The festival’s proximity to Washington, DC, makes it easy for area residents to experience burgeoning world-class theater while fostering connections between industry professionals and aspiring artists closer to home.
The festival also offers workshops, pre-show discussions, and behind-the-scenes tours that deepen understanding and offer unique insights into the creative process. These interactive elements make the Contemporary American Theater Festival an enriching experience not only for seasoned theater enthusiasts but also for newcomers.
Along with thought-provoking theater, Shepherdstown and the surrounding area also host historic sites, special events, outdoor recreational activities, and more. Festival attendees can stay in a charming, historic inn; shop at locally-owned and unique boutiques; and treat themselves to the splendid taste of Shepherdstown’s numerous restaurants.
Plan Your Visit
The Contemporary American Theater Festival takes place across several intimate venues in Shepherdstown, including the iconic Frank Center and Studio 112 on the Shepherd University campus. Each performance promises an up-close and personal connection to the art, aligning perfectly with the festival’s mission to engage and captivate.
Tickets are available now, with package options for those eager to attend multiple performances. Theatergoers are encouraged to secure seats early, as many shows are expected to sell out. For schedules, pricing, and additional details, visit www.catf.org.
An Invitation to Experience the Extraordinary
For Washingtonians and beyond, CATF is more than just an annual tradition—it’s a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and the communal human experience. Whether you’re a seasoned patron of the arts or exploring contemporary theater for the first time, this festival offers a chance to be inspired, challenged, and moved.
