Emerging Artists Festival 2026
166 Park Ave W, Mansfield, OH 44902, USA
Jan 14, 2026, 5:30 pm – Jan 14, 2026, 6:30 pm
Theatre 166
Designed to guide, encourage, support, and advocate for artists of all ages who wish to find their own voice through the creation of original works, the Emerging Artists Festival will showcase five world premiere productions this season: Each selected piece will be developed over an intensive one-week residency, culminating in a public reading where audience feedback becomes an essential part of the creative process. The Emerging Artists Festival serves as a launchpad for new voices in theatre and film. Each year, artists from around the country submit original works that have never before been produced or workshopped. Selected pieces are paired with directors, actors, and dramaturgs who collaborate to refine and strengthen the material in preparation for its first public presentation. Through this festival, the Renaissance Theatre reaffirms its dedication to fostering artistic development and providing space for experimentation, risk-taking, and discovery. For audiences, it’s a front-row seat to the process of creation—an intimate, engaging, and inspiring experience that celebrates the vitality of new work. Directed by Michael Thomaswith Associate Artistic Director Ryan Shealy January 9 at 7:30 PM January 14 at 7:30 PM January 17 at 7:30 PM