CWP Launchpad Reading Series: "Game Night" by Xander Jackson

About the Performance:

Game Night is a contemporary two-act play that focuses on a group of six friends going through a major life event. They meet for a game night at their apartment where a seemingly innocent card game turns volatile. One friend’s problematic behavior is called out, effectively blowing up the evening and the group's dynamic as a whole. Relationships are tested and hard conversations are had as they navigate what it means to be a present friend while each figures out how to show up for one another. Game Night is a seriocomedy that tackles themes of functioning substance abuse, shifting interpersonal dynamics, and societal constructs in a constantly fluctuating landscape.

Cast & Crew
Omar: Noe Luna
Victor: Hayward Leach
Daphne: Kelsey Puttrich
Liam: Xander Jackson
Tricia: Danielle Marivette Hernandez
Bernice: Raven Jeannette

About the Lead Artists:
Xander Jackson is a playwright/screenwriter, actor, director, & intimacy coordinator. Film: Sitting at the Window and Pause Down with Outside Entertainment. Theater: Gardening Tools, Finalist at the Queens Short Play Festival; Progression From Raze at Arnold Hall/The New School. In his free time, he enjoys a multitude of activities including baking, snowboarding, skydiving, and tabletop roleplaying games, to name a few. www.xanderjackson.com IG: @xndrjackson

About the CWP Launchpad Reading Series
The CWP Launchpad Reading Series is produced as part of The Center at West Park's Center for New Work Development. CWP is excited to present this special, 10-work edition of the series as part of the 2026 CWP Evolution Festival. Launchpad works with playwrights and directors to curate a series of pay-what-you-can developmental readings of new work with access to rehearsal and presentation space, marketing and promotional support, technical and administrative assistance, and a curatorial stipend provided by CWP. Through the Launchpad Reading Series, CWP uplifts artists in all stages of their careers by creating accessible and inclusive performance opportunities showcasing diverse talents.