PlaySmelter, Sudbury’s new work theatre festival, returns live this week.
The 12th annual festival runs May 2-4 at Sudbury Theatre Centre with new play readings, pop-ups and live art projections. And this year, it’s all about partnerships.
Since 2013, PlaySmelter has platformed and presented Northern Ontario stories. This year at PlaySmelter’24, the festival is delighted to bring together in celebration partner festivals in Northern Ontario and host them in Sudbury.
“These good folks share our vision and hunger for new works by Northern Ontario creators and include a brand-new northern festival we have been mentoring that is making its debut this year in Timmins,” said a press release.
Participating are the artistic directors from Fringe North (Sault Ste. Marie), Superior Theatre Festival (Thunder Bay) and the new Tamarack Festival (Timmins).
During the May 2 opening reception, there will be a special announcement that “will impact and we believe, ensure the prominence of Northern Ontario stories created for the stage,” said the press release.
All local artists are warmly invited to attend the opening reception.
As always, PlaySmelter gives audiences first looks at new plays in progress.
Participating playwrights are Garrett M. Ryan (North Bay), Jacob Maybe (Sault Ste. Marie) and Jake Deeth (Sudbury).
In addition, Northerners in Residence Avery McMillian (Sault Ste. Marie) and Alex Tétreault (Sudbury) will debut their new works that have been incubating in the Playwright Lab.
Pop-ups include new work by Suzanne McCrae, an indoor archery event, and all artist local market of yummy goods and art created by Dark Thistle, Alison’s Glitter and Glass, Foul Mouth Maker, Beckie’s Creations, La Baquette Magique and Latitude 46.
At dusk each night of the festival, the COVERT Collective will present a parade of Femme Visual Arts Projections on the high wall of Sudbury Theatre Centre, off Shaughnessy Street. This colourful, expansive and free display of femme created art is presented in partnership with sister festival Femme Folks Fest, which runs annually each March in Waterloo Region.
The PlaySmelter New Work Theatre Festival is produced by Pat the Dog Theatre Creation, a catalyst for new play creation.
Tickets to the event cost $15 at the door or online at playsmelter.ca.
