Next Wave Festival

About the Next Wave Festival

Spend an unforgettable weekend in Naples discovering new voices in American theatre! The Gulfshore Playhouse Next Wave Festival offers you an exclusive first look at plays that could define the next decade of theatre – continuing our tradition of championing groundbreaking work, from The Refugees to Circle Forward.

Whether you’re a passionate theatre fan, an industry professional, or simply looking for a cultural escape, the Next Wave Festival is your chance to be at the forefront of what’s next.

Festival Passes only are on sale now. Single tickets to readings, if available, will be on sale at a later date. 

Festival Weekend Schedule

Saturday, January 31

• 12PM – Every Anne Frank by Majkin Holmquist, directed by Kareem Fahmy, followed by a talkback with the playwright
• 3PM – The Frozen Ones by Stella Ferra, directed by Amy Marie Seidel, followed by a talkback with the playwright
• 5PM– Cocktail Party (pass holders only)
• 5-7:30PM – Lounge space available (pass holders only)
• 7:30PM – Cap off your evening with a performance of The Mousetrap or Circle Forward, running during the Festival weekend

Sunday, February 1

• 9:30AM – Brunch (pass holders only)
• 10:30AM– Playwright Panel Discussion
• 12PM – Fundraiser by Brent Askari, directed by Kristen Coury, followed by a talkback with the playwright
• 3PM – Attend The Mousetrap or Circle Forward

Why Attend?

• Be the first to experience the next great American play.
• Make it a destination weekend: world-class theatre in the heart of Naples.
• Connect with playwrights, artists, and like-minded theatre lovers.

Join us for a weekend that celebrates the future of American theatre.

Reserve your Festival Passes today and step into the next wave, where fresh works make a splash.