Seeing great summer theater doesn’t mean you have to head off to a far-flung destination. Shepherdstown, West Virginia, just about a 90 minute drive from Northern Virginia, is home to the annual Contemporary American Theater Festival.
The festival has presented new dramatic works by both established and emerging American playwrights. This year’s event will run from July 11 through August 3.
Contemporary American Theater Festival Performances
As in years past, the festival will be held across three venues at Shepherd University. It will showcase works from both new and acclaimed playwrights including Lisa Loomer, Lisa Sanaye Dring, Cody LeRoy Wilson, Mark St. Germain, and Kevin Kling.
Loomer, who is known for her hit Broadway piece, Real Women Have Curves, was one of the headlines of the festival’s very first season back in 1991. This year she will present the world premiere of her new play, Side Effects May Include… about the American medical system.
Other offerings include Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular by Sanaye, who most recently had works on stage at New York City’s Public Theater; Magdalene by St. Germain whose play, The Happiest Man on Earth, was a favorite at the festival last year; Unraveled, by Kling, who has appeared on NPR and PBS; and Did My Grandfather Kill My Grandfather, by West Virginia native Wilson.
Things to Do in Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is a charming town filled with history, art, and main street charm. And there’s plenty to do in town between attending plays.
As the oldest town in West Virginia, Shepherdstown wears its history with pride. First settled in the early 18th century and officially founded in 1762, the town holds a special place in American innovation as the birthplace of the steamboat.
Don’t miss local shops like Admiral Analog’s Record Store, O’Hurley’s General Store, Mountaineer Popcorn, Four Seasons Books, Dogwood General Store. There are great dining options like Alma Bea, Bistro 112, and Press Room. Shepherdstown’s main lodging option is The Bavarian Inn, an old school hotel with a small pool and on-site brewery. There are a handful of charming in-town and countryside Airbnbs in the area as well.
Courtesy West Virginia Department of Tourism
