Credit: Orlando Shakes
Orlando Shakes PlayFest is back after a too-long two-year hiatus, in partnership with UCF. This year’s showcase features five staged readings over two weekends.
Each reading invites audiences to share their reactions at a post-show talkback. The five finalists are: Dead Girl’s Quinceañera by Phanésia, a comic thriller about secrets, sisterhood and true crime; Dunk City by Stephen Brown, a comedy about family dynamics and personal insecurity; Tumbleweed by Marcus Scott, a drama exploring beauty standards and race within an interracial family; The Sandwich Ministry by Miranda Rose Hall, a tale of friendship and resilience during a storm; and The Mallard by Vincent Delaney, about two teachers navigating personal and professional upheaval.
Over the years, the festival has introduced more than 182 new works, with over 20 produced on the Orlando Shakes MainStage. Admission to each play is $16, or $66 to take in all five readings.
Orlando Festival Park, Orlando Shakes, 812 E. Rollins St., orlandoshakes.org, $16-$66.
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This article appears in Oct. 22-28, 2025.
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