CATS 3rd Annual AAPI Playwright Festival

3rd Annual AAPI Playwright Festival
An unforgettable evening of bold new theater, fresh voices, and community.

Join Contemporary Asian Theater Scene (CATS) for our 3rd Annual AAPI Playwright Festival, a dynamic celebration of original storytelling that shines a spotlight on exciting AAPI playwrights and the future of theater.

Experience six compelling new short works by an outstanding lineup of playwrights:

Tasi Alabastro
Anne Yumi Kobori
Suhashini Krishnan
Jenny Nguyen Nelson
Aimee Suzara
Phil Wong

Curated by acclaimed Artistic Producer Jeffrey Lo, with Assistant Producer Reed Flores, and directed by Reed Flores and Melissa Mei Jones, this one-night festival offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience new plays in development before they move on to future productions.

Expect an evening of stories that are funny, moving, provocative, surprising, and deeply human, reflecting the diversity, creativity, and lived experiences of AAPI communities.

Whether you're a longtime theater lover, passionate supporter of AAPI arts, or simply curious to discover something new, the AAPI Playwright Festival offers an intimate and energizing theater experience unlike any other.

Because new plays need audiences too.

Come be part of the creative journey.

Make it a full cultural weekend!
Enhance your festival experience with our optional Guided San Jose Japantown Walking Tour, presented in partnership with the Japanese American Museum of San Jose, taking place during the vibrant Obon Festival weekend on Sunday, July 12th!

EVENT DETAILS

3rd Annual AAPI Playwright Festival

Venue: San Jose Stage Theater, 490 S. 1st Street, Downtown San Jose
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 7:30pm, Doors Open at 6:45pm

San Jose Japantown Walking Tour
Special Parking Meeting Spot in Jtown- Guests will be notified
Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026
Time: 90 minutes Walking Tour in the Afternoon - Hours TBD