brand new stages festival
FEB 24-MAR 1, 2026
FESTIVAL LINEUP @ TTOK
A wonderfully eclectic mix of experimental and traditional works for the stage — most are getting their first public reading at the Festival.
Tuesday February 24th @ 7PM
I STARTED COLLECTING TEACUPS AFTER MY GRANDMA DIED – by Ryan Pepper
Starring Colin Doyle and Andy Trithardt. Directed by Mark Wallace
What starts as an ode to family heirlooms becomes a remembrance of a great romance with a Quebec separatist.
An interprovincial love affair, told through poetic dialogue, friendly banter, and the occasional croaking of frogs.
Content advisory: 14+ (strong language)
ARE WE SLEEPING? – Written and directed by Esther Vincent
Starring Dianne Latchford, Megan Murphy, and Mark Wallace
Florence, a renowned botanist no longer remembers her life’s work—or recognizes her own children. She drifts between determined clarity and the confusion of dementia, while siblings Andrew and Maggie navigate the heartbreaking realities of caregiving. Are We Sleeping? asks us to find grace in small kindnesses and love where memories falter.
Content advisory: 14+ (mature themes incl. dementia)
Wednesday February 25th @ 8PM
STORY SLAM 2026 Hosted by Megan Murphy
Theme: “Well, that was unexpected.”
StorySLAM is your chance to share a true, personal story that connects, inspires, makes us laugh, or moves us forward. Our StorySLAM is an open invitation for anyone who has a story to tell, and for anyone who just wants to enjoy an evening of communal storytelling.
Here’s how it works: each storyteller will have 5 minutes to share a personal story based on a theme (“Well, that was unexpected”). Stories must be true and from your own experience. No notes or props allowed – just you, your voice, and your story. Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or have never spoken on stage before, all are welcome to participate.
Friday February 27th @ 7PM
KENNEL by Katherine Cullen. Directed by Mark Wallace
Starring Stew Granger, Amy Keating, Annie Luján, Hilary Wear, and Jeff Yung.
A kitten, a doggie, a guinea pig take the stage but their play for young audiences goes off the rails in its search for an ending. Definitely not for young audiences!
An absurdly comic staged reading.
Content advisory: 14+ (strong language, mature themes)
Saturday February 28th @ 7PM
PICTURE DAY by Madeleine Brown. Directed by Linda Kash
Starring Marc Rico Ludwig, Mark Rostrup, Dreda Blow, Linda Kash, Megan Walsh, and Oaklen Conroy
It’s picture day at an elementary school, but when the school photographer doesn’t show up, a principal’s lie cascades into a series of disasters, as this brand new farce reaches hilarious heights.
A comedic staged reading.
Content advisory:14+ (strong language)
