Experience the South Carolina New Play Festival in Greenville

Looking for something new and unforgettable? The South Carolina New Play Festival (SCNPF) brings fresh theater and fun events to Greenville from August 7 to 10. Whether you’re a theater fan, bringing kids, or just curious, there is something here for you and your family.

Mainstage Events You Can’t Miss

Merlin Returns (August 7 and 8,  7 pm | Gunter Theatre) The show stars Piff the Magic Dragon, known from America’s Got Talent, playing Merlin. It’s a quirky, magical twist on familiar characters that draws laughter and surprises.

The Break (August 8 and 9, 8 pm | Warehouse Theatre) Catch The Break, a new musical by Chris Dimond and Michael Kooman (who wrote for Vampirina on Disney+). The music is catchy and the story pulls you in from the first note.

Mariah, or the Passageway (August 9, 2 pm at Centre Stage) Enjoy Mariah, or the Passageway by Rachel Bonds.

The Drought Girl (August 9, 3 pm at the Children’s Theatre) The Drought Girl brings a drama meant for younger audiences but poignant for all ages.

My Favorite Sociopath (August 10, 12pm at Warehouse) Watch My Favorite Sociopath to close out the festival. It’s smart, witty, and perfect as a finale. Each show explores fresh stories and bold characters.

Outdoor and Student Events for Everyone

If you prefer outdoor vibes or want free entertainment, head to Falls Park on August 9 and 10. The Outdoor Variety Stage offers live performances without a ticket fee and plenty of local vendors. It’s a chance to enjoy theater under the sky and support local businesses at the same time.

Also on August 9 from 9 am to noon on Main Street, the Spinx Market Live Arts Market & Fair brings artists from across South Carolina together. You can see demonstrations, buy art, or meet artists up close. You might even bump into a performer.

Spotlight on Youth Talent and Learning

The festival highlights South Carolina’s next generation through The Next Broadway Star Scholarship Contest. High school performers audition for scholarships and performance chances. You can catch acts and cheer on your community’s young talent.

If you’re curious about the inner workings of theater, SCNPF offers workshops and masterclasses. These include a casting workshop and a session on professional training paths. You’ll get a peek behind the curtain and a chance to ask questions if you dream of performing or working in the arts.

Your Takeaway: Why Attend SCNPF

Have you been waiting for a festival that blends mainstage productions with community energy? SCNPF brings theater into public spaces and neighborhoods. It’s the sort of event that lets you bring the whole family or invite friends who’ve never seen live theater before.

You’ll see new plays before Broadway does. You’ll support local artists and creative work. You’ll give students a stage to shine. You’ll explore Greenville’s downtown and parks in a new light.

Plan Your Visit

Visit scnpf.org for full schedules and ticket info. Some events cost a small fee. Others are 100 percent free, especially outdoor and youth performances. VIP options and packages are available if you want premium seating or perks.

Wrap up Your Visit with Local Flavor

While in Greenville, explore the nearby shops and restaurants downtown. You can grab lunch before a show or attend an evening performance and stay for dinner afterward. Greenville offers a vibrant downtown with walkable streets, art galleries, and greenways.

When you attend SCNPF, you get more than theater. You get a taste of Greenville’s creative culture and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a festival that invites you in, opens your mind, and gives you stories to remember.

Ready to experience something fresh this August? Mark your calendar for August 7 through 10. Whether you plan a single night out or make a weekend of it, SCNPF offers theater, music, community, and creativity—all under the open sky and inside intimate venues.