Submitted to the Neighborhood News
What do an elephant in a train station, a Beanie Baby, an unexpected visitor, a Florida hurricane and a grown man who believes in Santa Claus all have in common? They’re all integral parts of the Wesley Chapel Theater Group (WCTG)’s second annual One-Act Festival — Seven plays. Seven stories. One unforgettable afternoon of theater.
This year’s One-Act Festival features seven original short plays by talented Florida playwrights. Directed and performed by local artists, this unique collection showcases some of the most creative original storytelling that can be found throughout our state.
Audiences will enjoy an eclectic mix of both comedy and drama, with each 10-minute play offering a one-of-a-kind story. With everything from laugh-out-loud moments to heartfelt, thought-provoking scenes, this year’s One-Act Festival is sure to have something for everyone. It is a celebration of new works, local voices and the power of live theater to entertain, inspire and connect communities.
This year, WCTG took in more than 50 play submissions.
“Narrowing it down to seven shows was not easy,” says WCTG spokesperson Samantha Grahn. “We feel that we have an exceptional lineup. We are especially excited to welcome back playwrights Jessica Burchfield and Keith Whalen, whose works were featured in last year’s production. This collection of shows explores themes of family, enduring friendship and the moments that remind us not to take ourselves too seriously. It is truly a festival you won’t want to miss!”
This year’s Featured One-Act Plays include:
• “Twelve Books” by Philip Middleton Williams
• “Finding Help” by Marj O’Neill-Butler
• “Zoe’s Party” by Lois Findlay
• “On the Likelihood of Elephants” by Brian S. Brijbag, Esq.
• “Priceless” by Samara Siskind
• “Non-Weight Bearing” by Jessica Burchfield
• “Coming to Town” by Keith Whalen
Both performances of the 2026 “One Act Festival” will be held at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, located at 12118 Lake Blanche Dr., Odessa — on Saturday, July 18 & Sunday, July 19, both at 2 p.m. Tickets, which cost $15 for students and seniors and $20 for general admission, may be purchased at WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org.
For additional information, scan the QR code in the advertisement below or visit WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org.
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