San Diego, January 5, 2026
The Powers New Voices Festival returns to San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre, highlighting the works of both emerging and established playwrights. Scheduled for January 16-18, attendees can experience new theatrical performances that celebrate diverse perspectives in the arts. The festival emphasizes community engagement and supports local culture through free readings and workshops by talented playwrights. With a lineup that includes short plays and readings, it promises to stimulate conversations around contemporary issues in American theater.
Powers New Voices Festival Energizes San Diego CA Community
Join the celebration of fresh perspectives at the Old Globe Theatre’s annual event.
San Diego, California – The Old Globe Theatre is gearing up for its 13th annual Powers New Voices Festival, a free event that will run from January 16 to 18, 2026, at the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre in the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center. This festival represents an opportunity for both established and emerging playwrights, including local talent, to shine a spotlight on their work. It showcases the resilience of local cultural institutions in promoting the arts while emphasizing the importance of supporting community-driven events.
The festival not only serves as a platform for new works but also encourages civic involvement and community engagement, allowing residents to celebrate diverse voices and perspectives within the American theatrical landscape. Such initiatives reflect a broader case for reducing bureaucratic hurdles to make it easier for creative efforts to flourish in San Diego and beyond.
Festival Highlights and Schedule
The Powers New Voices Festival is packed with performances that span three days, showcasing seven new plays from emerging and award-winning playwrights. Attendees can look forward to a variety of works that promise to entertain and provoke thought.
- January 16, 2026: “Celebrating Community Voices” features three 20-minute plays by local artists Daimary Sánchez Moreno, Adena Varner, and Gastón Morineau and Veronica Burgess.
- January 17, 2026: A reading of “On the Far End” by Mary Kathryn Nagle.
- January 18, 2026: Readings of “The Valentine Vendetta: A Famous Girl Detective’s Least Famous Case” by Laura Winters, “This Is Not an Immigrant Story” by Reza Salazar, and “Three-headed Monster” by JuCoby Johnson.
Free Tickets and Reservations
Tickets for all festival readings are available for free but require reservations. Globe subscribers and donors can reserve seats starting Monday, December 22, 2025, at noon PST. General public reservations will open on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at noon. Interested attendees can make reservations by contacting the Ticket Services Department. For those seeking to attend without a reservation, a standby line will be available prior to each performance, although seating is not guaranteed.
Celebrating Local and National Voices
The 2026 festival continues its mission to present new American plays that reflect the rich cultural diversity found within the theater community. By including works from both local San Diegans and playwrights from elsewhere, the festival fosters a sense of unity and collaboration in the arts, highlighting how local initiatives can contribute to a larger national dialogue.
About The Old Globe Theatre
The Old Globe Theatre, located in San Diego’s Balboa Park, stands as a beacon of artistic achievement and community involvement. Known for its innovative productions and commitment to quality, the Globe provides a dynamic space for theatrical expressions that resonate with both local residents and visitors alike. Under the direction of its leadership team, the Globe remains committed to serving the community through engaging performances and educational programs.
Get Involved and Experience the Festival
The Powers New Voices Festival is more than just a showcase of plays; it represents the vibrant spirit of San Diego’s arts community. Residents are encouraged to support this event, explore the stories being presented, and engage in the conversations that arise. Participating in local events like this is essential for fostering community pride and encouraging continued personal and collective growth within the arts.
Key Event Information
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Powers New Voices Festival | January 16-18, 2026 | Showcasing seven new plays, featuring local and national playwrights. |
| Celebrating Community Voices | January 16, 2026 | Evening featuring three 20-minute plays by local artists. |
| Reading: On the Far End | January 17, 2026 | Reading by Mary Kathryn Nagle. |
| Multiple Play Readings | January 18, 2026 | Readings of “The Valentine Vendetta”, “This Is Not an Immigrant Story”, and “Three-headed Monster”. |
Conclusion
The Powers New Voices Festival is a perfect example of how community initiatives can elevate local culture while enabling emerging voices to be heard. Supporting such events not only enhances our local arts scene but also builds lasting connections among residents. Be sure to engage with this festival by reserving your spot and celebrating the creativity that thrives in San Diego. Every participation counts toward strengthening our community’s cultural fabric.
FAQ
What is the Powers New Voices Festival?
The Powers New Voices Festival is an annual event dedicated to presenting new American plays by emerging and award-winning playwrights.
What are the dates of the festival?
The festival will take place from January 16 to 18, 2026.
Where is the festival held?
The festival will be held at the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre in the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center.
Do I need tickets for the festival?
Tickets for all festival readings are free and require reservations.
When can I reserve tickets?
Globe subscribers and donors can reserve seats starting December 22, 2025; general public reservations will begin on January 13, 2026.
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