Category: General

Cygnet Theatre Will Open Its Inaugural Season at The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center on Sept. 10, 2025

A New Bespoke Branding Identity and Website Reflects the Production Company’s State-of-the-Art New Location And Evolution

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – (Jan. 19, 2025) – Cygnet Theatre, a leading San Diego performing arts institution, announced today its 21st season, which will launch September 10, 2025 and run through July 19, 2026. The lineup will feature four musicals and two plays, including several award-winning and critically acclaimed productions. This season will mark Cygnet’s first season at The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center (The Joan) – a new, world-class venue at Arts District Liberty Station that will serve as the production company’s permanent home.

The season’s musicals will kick off with: Follies, book by James Goldman, lyrics and music by Stephen Sondheim, directed by Sean Murray, music direction by Patrick Marion, choreography by Katie Banville; A Christmas Carol, adaptation, lyrics and directed by Sean Murray, original score by Billy Thompson, music direction by Patrick Marion, choreography by Katie Banville; Cygnet’s A Magical Holiday: Christmas at The Joan, directed by Carlos Mendoza;  Somewhere Over The Border, by Brian Quijada, directed and choreographed by Carlos Mendoza; The SpongeBob Musical, based on the Series by Stephen Hillenburg, book by Kyle Jarrow, musical production conceived by Tina Landau, directed by Katie Banville. Cygnet will also produce plays, including: the hilarious Vanya And Sonya And Masha And Spike, by Christopher Durang, directed by Anthony Methvin; and the thought-provoking The Lehman Trilogy, by Stefano Massini, directed by Sean Murray.

“Our move to The Joan at Liberty Station marks an exciting new chapter for Cygnet Theatre,” said Sean Murray, Artistic Director. “This state-of-the-art space allows us to bring our mission to life in new and dynamic ways, offering audiences the same exceptional, impactful and provocative storytelling that we are known for. With the support of amazing donors to build this new center for the San Diego arts, we are thrilled to create a vibrant hub for creativity and connection in the heart of the Arts District, made possible by the passion and dedication of our talented team, board and staff.”

The season will mark the official opening of The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center

with Cygnet’s first showing of Follies. The Joan – nicknamed for the late Joan Jacobs, lead donor of this landmark project and avid supporter of the arts – is the result of a unique nonprofit partnership between Cygnet and NTC Foundation. The organizations joined forces for an ambitious adaptive reuse project renovating and restoring historic Naval Building 178, retaining key original elements, while reimagining the space to create contemporary, functional theaters for Cygnet. Upon completion, it will be the only free-standing live performance space at Arts District Liberty Station, elevating the arts landscape in San Diego with an unparalleled cultural experience for years to come. The Joan will feature the Joseph Clayes III Theater – a 280+-seat proscenium theater – as well as a 150-seat flexible studio space, nicknamed the Dottie Studio Theater for donor Dorothea Laub, as well as state-of-the-art back-of-house facilities, acoustic elements and more. This new, modern space will allow Cygnet to elevate their productions, beginning with the highly-anticipated Season 21, and serve more San Diegans than ever before.

Since announcing the project in 2022 and breaking ground in early 2024, The Joan has received significant community support, helping to realize the building’s momentous transformation. Cygnet Theatre and NTC Foundation are relying on continued philanthropic support to fulfill the remainder of the needed funds, with the project currently standing at 86% of the $43.5 million fundraising goal. Cygnet Theatre and NTC Foundation invite the public to help bring this incredible new venue to life and support Cygnet in continuing to bring world-class performances to the San Diego community for years to come.

“We are thrilled to welcome our audiences to experience Cygnet as they never have before in our new home at The Joan,” said Bill Schmidt, Cygnet Executive Director. “This season marks a new era for Cygnet. We are honored to partner with NTC Foundation in bringing this incredible space to life, allowing us to continue bringing world-class theatre to San Diego. We look forward to a bright future connecting with the performing arts and local communities in new and exciting ways.”

With the announcement of the new season, Cygnet Theatre also unveiled a refreshed brand identity, including a modernized Cygnet logo, cohesive logo incorporating The Joan, as well as a      redesigned website. The new Cygnet logo reinforces the iconic black swan design, symbolizing the organization’s rich artistic legacy and dynamic future. The redesigned website offers an enhanced user experience and reflects Cygnet Theatre’s bold new chapter at Liberty Station.

Season 21 renewal subscriptions are available now and can be purchased in person at the box office located at 4040 Twiggs Street in San Diego Old Town Historic State Park, by calling 619-337-1525, or by visiting cygnettheatre.org. New Season 21 subscriptions will be available mid-March 2025. Single show tickets for these productions will be available at a later date.

Donations to The Joan can be made via www.building178.org, by contacting Campaign Manager Mindy DeDominicis at 619-574-0059 x178 and all donations checks should be made payable to Building 178 Performing Arts Center and mailed to California Bank of Commerce at 1620 5th Avenue Suite 120, San Diego, CA 92101. Naming opportunities are still available and Donor Wall inclusions are available for a minimum donation of $25,000.

About Cygnet Theatre

Cygnet Theatre Company produces a year-round season of professional Off-Broadway-style theatre as well as thought-provoking and engaging educational programming. Cygnet is committed to maintaining high standards of artistic and fiscal integrity, and serves more than 50,000 patrons annually from San Diego and beyond. Cygnet performs its mainstage productions at the brand-new theatre in Arts District Liberty Station. An active member of the San Diego community, Cygnet has outreach programs serving tens of thousands of students and community members annually.

 

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CYGNET THEATRE 21^ST SEASON AND INAUGURAL SEASON AT THE JOAN

Follies

Book by James Goldman

Lyrics and Music by Stephen Sondheim

Directed by Sean Murray

Music Direction by Patrick Marion

Choreography by Katie Banville

Sept. 10 – Oct. 5, 2025

Joseph Clayes III Theater

Stephen Sondheim’s Follies is a dazzling and bittersweet exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. Set in a crumbling theatre, former showgirls reunite one last time, reliving their heyday and confronting the choices that shaped their lives. With iconic songs like “Broadway Baby” and “Losing My Mind,” this Tony Award-winning masterpiece blends haunting nostalgia with show-stopping spectacle in a moving celebration of dreams and regrets.

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike 

By Christopher Durang

Directed by Anthony Methvin

Oct. 8 – Nov. 2, 2025

Dottie Studio Theater

This riotous comedy blends sibling drama with Chekhovian absurdity. When movie star Masha returns to her childhood home with her boy-toy Spike, she upends the quiet lives of her quirky brother Vanya and adopted sister Sonia. Chaos ensues in this whip-smart, laugh-out-loud play about family dysfunction, middle-aged angst, and the unexpected joys of life.

A Christmas Carol

Adaptation & Lyrics by Sean Murray

Original Score by Billy Thompson

Directed by Sean Murray

Music Direction by Patrick Marion

Choregraphy by Katie Banville

Nov. 26 – Dec. 28, 2025

Joseph Clayes III Theater

Celebrate ten years of A Christmas Carol at Cygnet Theatre with a fresh twist in honor of Cygnet’s new home at The Joan! This reimagined production of Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of hope and redemption brings a visually stunning and heartwarming experience to the stage. With a refreshed script, captivating storytelling, and festive magic, this cherished holiday tradition is perfect for audiences of all ages and sure to delight the entire family. Join us as we welcome the season with joy, wonder, and the enduring spirit of the holidays.

Cygnet’s A Magical Holiday: Christmas at The Joan

Created & Directed by Carlos Mendoza

Choregraphy by Kristel Nichols & Carlos Mendoza

Musical Arrangements by Justin Gray

Dec. 10 – 28, 2025

Dottie Studio Theater

This all-singing, all-dancing performance brings joy to audiences of all ages with live renditions of beloved festive classics, including “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Let It Snow,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Feliz Navidad,” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.”  The show’s vibrant, colorful production evokes the festive magic of the iconic Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. Fun, energetic, and entertaining, it’s the perfect way to light up your holiday season.

Somewhere Over The Border

By Brian Quijada

Directed and choreographed by Carlos Mendoza

Feb. 18 – March 15, 2026

San Diego Premiere

Joseph Clayes III Theater

Inspired by a real-life journey, Somewhere Over the Border weaves a heartwarming tale of resilience and hope. Blending magical realism with the charm of The Wizard of Oz, this moving musical follows Reyna’s courageous journey to build a better life. With vibrant characters and a lively score, it’s a story about family, sacrifice, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

The Lehman Trilogy

By Stefano Massini

Directed by Sean Murray

March 25 – April 19, 2026

San Diego Premiere

Dottie Studio Theater

Winner of the 2022 Tony Award for Best Play, The Lehman Trilogy is a gripping saga spanning over 150 years. It traces the rise and fall of the Lehman Brothers, from immigrant beginnings to the heights of Wall Street power. This epic tale of ambition, innovation, and greed offers a sweeping look at the complexities of American capitalism. With three actors playing over seventy roles, it’s a theatrical tour de force that’s as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning.

The SpongeBob Musical

Based on the Series by Stephen Hillenburg

Book by Kyle Jarrow

Musical production conceived by Tina Landau

Directed by Katie Banville

June 10 – July 5, 2026

Joseph Clayes III Theater

Dive into the underwater world of Bikini Bottom with The SpongeBob Musical! When disaster threatens their beloved home, SpongeBob and his quirky friends must band together to save the day. Packed with unforgettable songs by music legends and colorful characters, this high-energy, family-friendly musical celebrates friendship, optimism, and the power of community. It’s pure fun for audiences of all ages! Featuring songs written by the biggest musicians of the time including David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend and Lady A to name a few!

Sample H2

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Sample H3

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• Phasellus vestibulum elit vel nulla imperdiet, non sagittis sem scelerisque.
• Integer rhoncus risus id nisl dictum, et porta nisi ornare.

Sample H4

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Sample H5

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Sample H6

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Family Secrets Unravel During a Christmas Gathering in Palm Springs
Performances Run February 5 – March 2, 2025

Cygnet Theatre proudly presents the searingly funny drama Other Desert Cities penned by Pulitzer Prize finalist playwright and screenwriter, Jon Robin Baitz. Directed by Sean Murray, this production is set to enthrall audiences from February 5 to March 2, 2025 at Cygnet Theatre in Old Town. Opening night for media is Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 7:00 PM (Pacific Time).

“In Other Desert Cities, we dive into a captivating family saga that explores deep themes of history and betrayal when a hidden secret comes to light,” says Director Sean Murray. “Experiencing this intense and humorous play is like unveiling layers of past secrets and regrets, revealing that ‘things may not always be as they seem.’ It’s filled with sharp, urbane characters grappling with their histories in a way that makes for truly great storytelling.”

When Brooke Wyeth returns to her family’s upscale Palm Springs home after a six-year absence to celebrate Christmas, she brings more than just holiday cheer. Armed with a tell-all memoir that resurrects a pivotal and tragic event from the family’s past, Brooke draws a line in the sand, daring her parents, brother, and aunt to confront their buried secrets. As the family unravels in the face of this explosive revelation, tensions soar and loyalties are tested. With biting wit and razor-sharp insight, Other Desert Cities promises a riveting exploration of family dynamics that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The cast features Rosina Reynolds (Angels in America) as Polly; Melanie Lora Meltzer as Brooke; Alan Rust as Lyman; Debra Wanger (Angels in America) as Silda; and Geoffrey Ulysses Geissinger as Trip.

In addition to direction by Sean Murray, the creative team for Cygnet’s production of Other Desert Citiesincludes:  Scenic design by Andrew Hull, sound design by George Ye, lighting design by Joshua Heming, props design by Heather Larsen, costume design by Brooke Nicole Kesler, wig and makeup design by Peter Herman, and stage management is Jared Blake Halsell.

Tickets for Other Desert Cities are on sale now and may be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 619-337-1525, or by visiting cygnettheatre.com. Cygnet Theatre is located at 4040 Twiggs Street in San Diego Old Town Historic State Park. Regular ticket prices start at $34.

 

About Cygnet Theatre

Cygnet Theatre Company produces a year-round season of professional Off-Broadway-style theatre as well as thought-provoking and engaging educational programming. Cygnet is committed to maintaining high standards of artistic and fiscal integrity, and serves more than 40,000 patrons annually from San Diego and beyond. Cygnet performs its mainstage productions in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park but will be moving in to a state-of-the-art new theatre in Arts District Liberty Station in September 2025. An active member of the San Diego community, Cygnet has outreach programs serving tens of thousands of students and community members annually.

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Other Desert Cities Fact Sheet

WHAT:

Cygnet Theatre presents Other Desert Cities by Jon Robin Baitz

 

WHERE:

Cygnet Theatre

4040 Twiggs St. in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

 

WHO:

Director: Sean Murray

Scenic Designer: Andrew Hull

Sound Designer: George Ye°

Props Designer: Heather Larsen

Costume Designer: Brooke Nicole Kesler

Lighting Designer: Joshua Heming

Wig and Makeup Designer: Peter Herman°

Stage Management: Jared Blake Halsell

 

CAST:

Rosina Reynolds*°: Polly

Alan Rust*: Lyman

Melanie Lora Meltzer*: Brooke

Debra Wanger: Silda

Geoffrey Ulysses Geissinger: Trip

 

*Member of Actors Equity Association, °Resident Artist

DATES:

Previews begin: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 @ 7:00 PM

Press Opening: Saturday, February 8, 2025 @ 7:00 PM

Closes: Sunday, March 2, 2025 @ 2:00 PM

Showtimes:

Wednesday – Saturday at 7:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 PM

 

PRICE:

Prices start at $34 with discounts for preview performances, student and military.

 

HOW:

Phone: (619) 337-1525

Online: www.cygnettheatre.com

In-Person: Cygnet Theatre – 4040 Twiggs St., San Diego, CA 92110

Cygnet Theatre’s Permanent, State-of-the-Art Home is Slated to Open Late Summer 2025

SAN DIEGO (Dec. 3, 2024) – Cygnet Theatre and NTC Foundationare thrilled to announce two generous, transformative gifts to their joint project, The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center.  A $5 million endowment from the Joseph W. Clayes III Charitable Trust and a $3 million gift from Irwin Jacobs that brings the Jacobs’ total contribution to $10 million will support the development of San Diego’s newest performing arts center. Lovingly nicknamed The Joan, the state-of-the-art venue is slated to open in late Summer 2025 at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station.

The Joan – the result of a unique nonprofit partnership between Cygnet and NTC Foundation – is an adaptive reuse project renovating and restoring historic Naval Building 178. Upon completion, it will be a world-class theatre and the only free standing live performance space at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station. The Joan will feature the Joseph W. Clayes III Theatre –  a 280+-seat proscenium theatre – as well as a 150-seat flexible studio space,  state-of-the-art back-of-house facilities, acoustic elements and more –  all allowing Cygnet to elevate their highly-anticipated productions and serve more San Diegans than ever before.

The $5 million endowment will support the venue’s ongoing operations by providing long-term support for Cygnet Theatre and The Joan, ensuring the financial stability of these key cultural institutions in San Diego. The endowment will help cover ongoing expenses and ensure the iconic company, and its new, permanent home, continue to thrive.

“As Trustees of the Joseph Clayes III Charitable Trust, my co-trustee Brendan Holmes and I have made decisions based on the mission of the Trust and organizations that my uncle would have had a connection. My uncle completed his naval training at the Naval Training Center and also had a strong connection with the performing arts,” said Trulette M. Clayes, Co-Trustee and niece of Joseph Clayes III. “ When I was traveling through Liberty Station and noticed the signage on The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center, I thought that this was the perfect blend of my uncle’s history and his love of the arts. We are honored to become a part of the Cygnet Theatre family and the Naval Training Center.”

In addition to this endowment, Irwin Jacobs recently contributed an additional $3 million donation to The Joan, which is nicknamed in honor of his late wife, Joan Jacobs. This donation furthers Joan Jacobs’ significant philanthropic legacy in San Diego and brings Cygnet and NTC Foundation closer to their $43.5 million fundraising goal.

“Joan and I were thrilled when we learned of plans to convert Naval Building 178 into a spectacular theater for use by Cygnet and many others,” said Irwin Jacobs. “Given the unexpected costs in restoring historic buildings, I am pleased to provide this additional gift to help ensure completion on schedule. My family looks forward to attending the first performance at The Joan.”

“Thanks to these generous contributions, The Joan and Cygnet Theatre are poised for a strong and sustainable future,” said Bill Schmidt, co-founder and Executive Director of Cygnet Theatre. “This is an incredible moment for both organizations, allowing us to continue enriching the community with powerful artistic programming.”

With the Jacobs’ newest contribution, the project has now achieved 86% percent of its $43.5 million fundraising goal. While the Clayes endowment does not reduce the remaining $5.9 million needed, it ensures long-term, financial stability and support for The Joan and Cygnet Theatre by providing $1 million annually over five years. The first distribution of funds will be received in December 2024, with subsequent disbursements each December through 2028. The funds, held by Cygnet Theatre but dedicated specifically to the ongoing support of The Joan, will help cover operational costs. Both contributions are imperative for bringing The Joan to life and preserving it as a cornerstone of artistic and cultural programming in San Diego.

“This gift and endowment represents an unwavering commitment to the arts in San Diego, helping us maintain a vibrant cultural hub,” said Lisa Johnson, NTC Foundation President and CEO. “The generosity of the Joseph Clayes III Charitable Trust and Irwin Jacobs will allow us to enrich our community through art and equip us to meet future challenges with resilience and creativity.”

Since its groundbreaking in January 2024, The Joan has received incredible community support, helping to realize the building’s momentous transformation. Cygnet Theatre and NTC Foundation are relying on continued philanthropic support to fulfill the remainder of the needed funds. They invite the public to take advantage of tax-deductible opportunities and become a part of this landmark project before year-end. Together, this support can ensure The Joan reaches the fundraising goal by its official opening date, bringing world-class performances to the San Diego community for years to come.

Donations can be made via www.building178.org, by contacting Campaign Manager Mindy DeDominicis at 619-574-0059 x178 and all donations checks should be made payable to Building 178 Performing Arts Center and mailed to Bank of Southern California 1620 5th Avenue, Suite 120 San Diego, CA 92101. Naming opportunities are still available and Donor Wall inclusions are available for a minimum donation of $25,000.

For more information about The Joan, please visit www.building178.org.

About Cygnet Theatre:
Cygnet Theatre, founded in 2002, is a leading San Diego performing arts institution known for its close personal connection with its patrons and high-quality contemporary programming. Cygnet attracts a diverse audience of theatre lovers and has won more than 130 awards for theatre excellence. Cygnet’s engagement programs provide theatre access to under-served communities including students, military families, as well as professional opportunities to college students and emerging artists.

About NTC Foundation:
NTC Foundation was established in 2000 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, to renovate 26 historic buildings at the former Naval Training Center into a significant destination for art, culture and creativity. Now the largest historic preservation and cultural project in San Diego county, ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station is a unique location filled with nearly 145 galleries, museums, artists, music groups, dance companies, makers, creators and distinctive dining experiences.

About the Joseph Clayes III Charitable Trust: 
The Trust supports the performing arts, museums and other cultural venues and supports physically and mentally challenged young people in San Diego County, Orange County and the Coachella Valley. Former gifts include Cal State Fullerton’s Performing Arts Center, the Joseph Clayes III Gallery at the Athenaeum Music and Arts Library in La Jolla, the Great Room at the Ronald McDonald House San Diego, the Training Room at Canine Companions of San Diego, the Joseph Clayes III Exhibition Wing at The Palm Springs Art Museum and Rady Children Hospital Research for Neuro-Oncology and Genomics as well as the Center for Emotional Healing.

The San Diego holiday favorite for the past decade adds in an expanded storyline, fresh original music and a revitalized script

Performances Run November 29 – December 24

SAN DIEGO, CA – Cygnet Theatre celebrates the holiday season with the return of its production of A Christmas Carol, a San Diego favorite for nearly a decade. The Charles Dickens classic, adapted by Cygnet Artistic Director Sean Murray, runs from November 29-December 24 on the Cygnet stage in Old Town San Diego. Opening Night for media is Friday, November 29 at 7:00pm

Cygnet Theatre’s enchanting adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale, directed by and starring Cygnet’s Artistic Director, Sean Murray, highlights Scrooge’s journey in this timeless story of hope and redemption. This reimagined version of the original holiday classic includes an expanded storyline, fresh original music, and a revitalized script that will offer something new for everyone.

“We are thrilled to bring A Christmas Carol back to Cygnet Theatre for the 2024 holiday season, marking a memorable farewell to our production in Old Town San Diego,” said Murray. “It’s incredible how this timeless story continues to reveal new layers. We’re excited to share this refreshed version of A Christmas Carol with our audience, and we believe it will resonate in a whole new way. We can’t wait for everyone to experience it with us.”

Sean Murray will once again don the top hat and scarf of Ebenezer Scrooge. Joining him on stage are David McBean, Patrick McBride, Eileen Bowman, Megan Carmitchel, Jasmine January, and Allen Lucky Weaver. With the exception of Murray, all actors play multiple roles.

In addition to direction by Sean Murray, the creative team includes scenic design by Andrew Hull, lighting design by Colby Freel, sound design by Matt Lescault Wood, costume design by Jeanne Reith, wig and makeup design by Peter Herman, choreography by Katie Banville,  original puppets designed by Michael McKeon, musical direction by Patrick Marion and stage management by Dean Remington.

Tickets for A Christmas Carol are on sale now and may be purchased in person at the box office located at 4040 Twiggs Street in San Diego Old Town Historic State Park, by calling 619-337-1525 or by visiting www.cygnettheatre.com. Children 5 – 12 years old receive half-off tickets with each paid adult.

About Cygnet Theatre
Cygnet Theatre Company produces a year-round season of professional Off-Broadway-style theatre as well as thought-provoking and engaging educational programming. Cygnet is committed to maintaining high standards of artistic and fiscal integrity, and serves more than 40,000 patrons annually from San Diego and beyond. Cygnet performs its mainstage productions at the state-of-the-art theatre in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. As Cygnet prepares to relocate to the ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station in 2025, the organization remains committed to enriching the community through transformative theatrical experiences.

In Partnership with the UCSD MFA Playwriting Program, Cygnet’s New Play Commission Returns with Three New Playwrights

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – (October 16, 2024) – Cygnet Theatre announces its lineup of playwrights for the 2024 Bill and Judy Garrett Finish Line Commission. In partnership with the UCSD MFA Playwriting Program, the commission supports Cygnet’s commitment to new theatrical works, written by groundbreaking local and nationally recognized playwrights. The 2024 artists include MFA Playwrights Mylan Gray and Beth Hyland as well as established playwright Phanesia Pharel. The Finish Line Festival Producer is Kian Kline-Chilton. Free public readings of all three plays will take place November 9 – 10, 2024 at Cygnet Theatre.

“For almost a decade, The Bill and Judy Garrett Finish Line Commission has embraced, celebrated and worked to elevate the performance of well-composed pieces,” says Sean Murray, Cygnet Theatre Artistic Director. “This festival extends the commitment to the world of theatre and to the talented playwrights whose words ought to be heard by the public.”

Launched in 2020, the UCSD MFA Playwriting Program partnership features a new class each year, comprised of two to three playwrights, who will be given a commission to participate. Playwrights awarded The Finish Line Commission will be given a week-long workshop culminating in a public reading, a financial reward, and an opportunity for a world premiere production at Cygnet.

“We are thrilled to further expand Cygnet’s mission of championing storytellers and preparing
them for the stage,” says festival producer Kian Kline-Chilton. “Cygnet Theatre along with The
Bill and Judy Garrett Finish Line Commission will continue to be a launch pad for the development and premiere of works by well-known and up-and-coming playwrights and directly supporting living artists who are in the prime of their creative years.”

The Finish Line Commission is made possible thanks to the contribution of long-time donors Bill and Judy Garrett. “We happily support the nurturing of new playwrights who are exploring provocative, entertaining, contemporary stories and topics to add to the vast lexicon of theatrical works currently available to performers and audiences. We’re delighted to be able to help create new works for today’s world,” explained Judy Garrett.

The Bill and Judy Garrett Finish Line Commission provides:

• Financial support to the playwright, actors, and director.
• A Finish Line Commission grant for a local playwright and right of first refusal.
• Rehearsal space and production support
• Public in-person readings of all plays.
• A series of public talk-backs and playwright reception.

The readings and surrounding events are FREE to the public. Seats may be reserved in person at the box office located at 4040 Twiggs Street in San Diego Old Town Historic State Park, by calling 619-337-1525 or online at https://www.cygnettheatre.com/connect/finish-line/

PLAYS AND PLAYWRIGHTS

LONNIE’S LAMENT

By Mylan Gray

Directed by Lamar Perry

Reading: November 9 at 2:00 PM

After having his marriage proposal turned down by his long-term girlfriend, Marvin leaves Chicago for New York City to pursue his dream of becoming a saxophone legend. While reveling in the freedom of 1920’s Harlem at its peak, he falls in love with a man for the first time. When his ex-fiancé comes back into his life, he is forced to choose between the two loves of his life. What does it mean to fashion new ways of being both/and through the notes of your horn? Is it possible to love two people fully at once? Should you?

ABOUT THE PLAYWRIGHT:

Mylan Gray is an Eagle Scout and Kansas State debate champion turned playwright. He is a descendant of black educators and soldiers and is preoccupied with transforming Black suffering into Black joy, laughter and peace. He has received the Lorraine Hansberry Award from the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival for his play, Buried in Blood. He is a graduate of Stanford University, where he received the Kennell Jackson Jr. Award. Mylan’s work draws on his deep reverence for Brazil and a penchant for spiritual journeying. He is currently a third-year MFA student in Playwriting at UC San Diego.

 

UNTITLED RAGE PLAY

By Phanésia Pharel

Directed by Delicia Turner Sonnenberg

Reading: November 9 at 7:00 PM

A string of mysteries that uncover the violent, isolating, experience of present day black women – a revolt of a play asking us: what do you do when no one is listening?

ABOUT THE PLAYWRIGHT:

Phanésia Pharel is a Haitian-American playwright from a dragon fruit farm in Miami.

Her honors include the Kennedy Center Lorraine Hansberry Award, Kilroys List, Bay Area Playwrights Festival Finalist/Honorable Mention, Jane Chambers Finalist, A is For Playwriting award, Kennedy Center Latinx Playwriting Award,  and the Frank Moffett Mosier Fellowship for Works in Heightened Finalist Prize.

Phanésia is a member of the Obie-winning EST/Youngblood group and The Wish Collective, whose play the wish has been performed in over 20 states since the fall of Roe v. Wade. Her commissions include the Atlantic Theater and the Miranda Family Fund.

 

BABY SHOWER KATIE

By Beth Hyland

Directed by Jill Jones

Reading: November 10 at 7:00 PM

Rebecca desperately wants to have a child; her lifelong best friend Hannah has no idea if she can, if she should or if she even wants to. Will their friendship survive their diverging lives, or will their choices tear them apart? BABY SHOWER KATIE is a comedy told in four baby showers (for three different women named Katie) about friendship, new motherhood, and the insanity of the baby shower industrial complex.

ABOUT THE PLAYWRIGHT:

Beth Hyland is a playwright and screenwriter based in Southern California. Her plays and musicals include SYLVIA SYLVIA SYLVIA, FIRES, OHIO, CANCELINA, SEAGULLS, and KILLED A MAN (JOKING). Her plays have been produced and developed regionally at the Geffen Playhouse, Portland Center Stage, Steppenwolf’s LookOut Series, Goodman Theatre’s New Stages, Know Theatre, Provincetown Theatre, B Street Theatre, Oak Park Festival Theatre, and Octagon Theatre Bolton; in New York at Manhattan Theatre Club and The Hearth; and around Chicago at Jackalope Theatre, First Floor Theater, The Story Theatre, Bramble Theatre, The Sound in collaboration with Joe Swanberg, and others. Her play SYLVIA SYLVIA SYLVIA was the 2024 recipient of Williamstown Theatre Festival’s Weissberger Prize and Jay Harris Commission, as well as the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Award for Comic Playwriting. Her play FIRES, OHIO was the 2023 recipient of the Kennedy Center’s Paula Vogel Prize and the Mark Twain Award for Comic Playwriting. She co-founded The Sound, an itinerant Chicago storefront theatre, with artistic director Rebeca Willingham. Her short film CLAMBAKE, directed by Sammy Zeisel, was an official selection of the Art of Brooklyn Film Festival and the Santa Monica Film Festival. She is a rising third-year MFA candidate at UC San Diego under the mentorship of Naomi Iizuka and Deborah Stein. BA: Kenyon College. Representation: Jamie Kaye-Phillips, Paradigm. bethhyland.com

ABOUT CYGNET THEATRE

Cygnet Theatre Company produces a year-round season of professional Off-Broadway-style theatre as well as thought-provoking and engaging educational programming. Cygnet is committed to maintaining high standards of artistic and fiscal integrity, and serves more than 50,000 patrons annually from San Diego and beyond. Cygnet performs its mainstage productions at the theatre in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. An active member of the San Diego community, Cygnet has outreach programs serving tens of thousands of students and community members annually. For more information, visit www.cygnettheatre.com.

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The strategic hire bolsters the organization’s accelerated fundraising growth ahead of its move to ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station in 2025

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – (October 1, 2024) – Cygnet Theatre is pleased to announce the addition of James “Jimmy” Saba as its Major Gifts Officer. With decades of experience as a non-profit executive in the performing arts industry, Saba is set to strengthen the theatre’s fundraising efforts as it prepares for its upcoming move to ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station.

James Saba has over 30 years of experience in the performing arts arena, including roles as an Artistic Director, Executive Director, and actor in various productions. He began his non-profit theater career at Hope Repertory Theatre’s Children’s Stage in Holland, Michigan, where he produced approximately 47 productions for young audiences and participated in several fundraising events to secure major gifts from local donors. For the past decade, Saba has served as the Executive Director of San Diego Junior Theatre where he was responsible for the organization’s mission and financial objectives.

Bill Schmidt, Executive Director for Cygnet Theatre, expressed his enthusiasm about Saba joining the team, stating, “We are so pleased to have James Saba join our team in this important role for our organization. Jimmy brings strong skills and industry experience that enable us to further develop our fundraising efforts, especially in preparation for our move to a new, state-of-the-art home at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station next year.”

Saba will work closely with the Executive Director and Development team to cultivate and steward major donors, playing a vital role in securing critical funding for Cygnet Theatre’s artistic mission and upcoming relocation to Liberty Station. His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring the financial sustainability necessary to grow the theatre’s presence and impact.”

“I was part of Cygnet’s journey into their first space in the Rolando neighborhood and had the pleasure of performing as an actor at the Old Town venue,” said Saba. “Now, I’m thrilled to join the fundraising team and help lead the charge as we prepare for Cygnet’s exciting new chapter at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station.”

Saba received his B.F.A. in Theatre from Southern Methodist University. He is a current member of the San Diego Performing Arts League and the San Diego City College Technical Theatre Advisory Board.

About Cygnet Theatre
Cygnet Theatre Company produces a year-round season of professional Off-Broadway-style theatre as well as thought-provoking and engaging educational programming. Cygnet is committed to maintaining high standards of artistic and fiscal integrity, and serves more than 40,000 patrons annually from San Diego and beyond. Cygnet performs its mainstage productions at the state-of-the-art theatre in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. As it prepares to relocate to the ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station in 2025, the organization remains committed to enriching the community through transformative theatrical experiences.