East Coast Theatre Short Play Festival
22 August 2026
De Luxe Theatre, Opotiki, New Zealand
A collection of short plays
ABOUT THE SHOW
The East Coast Theatre Short Play Festival brings together eight original short plays. From comedy to drama, mystery to heartfelt human stories, each play offers something completely different, creating an exciting and fast paced theatrical experience for audiences of all tastes.
Featuring a diverse range of writers, characters, and storytelling styles, the festival celebrates creativity, imagination, and the power of live performance. Some plays will make you laugh, some may challenge the way you think, and others may leave you deeply moved, but every piece promises to take audiences on a unique journey.
With fresh local talent, bold ideas, and the relentless passion that defines East Coast Theatre, this festival is a showcase of storytelling at its most vibrant and entertaining.
KEY DATES
Planning: March – May
Info session: 7 June 2026 – 2PM (Download PDF)
Auditions: 14 June 2026 – 2PM
Rehearsals: 21June – 16 August 2026
Intensive week: 17 – 21 August 2026
Performances: 22 August 2026 – 2PM & 7PM
PRODUCTION TEAM
Expressions of interest invited for all production team roles. Please email:
Production Manager: ECT Committee
Director: Dan Gillgren
Assistant Director:
Stage Manager:
Costume coordinator:
Properties coordinator:
Set design and construction:
CAST TO BE CONFIRMED
TICKET SPONSORSHIP
East Coast Theatre believes that the magic of live theatre should be for everyone. No one should miss out simply because of cost.
You can make a difference. By donating tickets, you can give someone in need an unforgettable evening of laughter, wonder, and escape. We call them PIFTIX “pay it forward tickets”.
Your gift of a PIFTIX or two, could bring joy to residents of rest homes, local charities, or brighten the life of someone who could really use a lift.
Every $25 donated to PIFTIX buys a moment of happiness that lasts far beyond the final curtain. And as a heartfelt thank you, your generosity will be recognized on social media (if you wish), included in our show program, and acknowledged on our website.
Each year, we present a mix of productions for all tastes and experience levels. Whether you’re drawn to the stage, the script, or behind the scenes, there’s a place for you here. Follow us on Facebook to stay in the loop!
WELCOME GUIDE
Download our Welcome Guide to learn everything you need to know about getting involved — from auditions and backstage roles to how we bring our shows to life. It’s your first step to becoming part of the East Coast Theatre family!