Enjoy original works written and presented by local teens.

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theatre is proud to present its first Emerging Playwrights Festival on January 20 at 7:00 pm, spotlighting the creativity of local teens. They have taken their original written stories and brought them to life for the stage. Four short stories will be presented in the indoor theatre, casted and directed by the students themselves. The featured students are Sarah Bailey (Joliet), Zane Carmine (Joliet) and Briana K. Hamilton (Shorewood).

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The three presenting students have been working with their theatre coach and mentor, Kimberly D. Garrett of KDG Greater Entertainment. Herself an author, stage director, improv coach, comedian, Joliet resident and Chicago Second City alumna, Kimberly has been guiding the students through the process. She reminds them the emphasis on their words, and their short stories will be shown as studio works with minimal staging. “Mentoring these Emerging Young Playwrights is tremendously enjoyable,” reflects Kimberly. “I am impressed by their uniqueness, creativity and ambition.”

Sarah Bailey (sophomore at Plainfield Central High School, Joliet resident) presents her original story:  “Best (Pen) Pals.” Her piece is about having a crush on your best friend and your internet pen pal can make life hard… especially when they’re the same person. Kimberly notes, “Sarah is a multitalented impressive individual. Her writing is heartfelt and meaningful.”

Zane Carmine (sophomore at Joliet Catholic Academy, Joliet resident) presents two of his original stories: “Correspondence” and “Posthumously.” “Correspondence” is a murder mystery set in Victorian England at the turn of the century. The audience has to figure out who-done-it from the written letters exchanged between the characters. In his comedy, “Posthumously,” he tells why resurrecting a dead mailman was a grave mistake. “Zane’s writing is intelligent and daring,” observes Kimberly.

Briana K. Hamilton (8^th grader at Minooka Junior High School, Shorewood resident) presents her original piece “Miss Jolly-et 2018.” Briana’s story looks at a local beauty pageant, where the finalists demonstrate their individual and highly unique talents. “Briana’s arsenal of writing techniques are impressive,” remarks Kimberly. “This creation is fun, refreshing, and downright hilarious!”

The event is produced by Will-Joliet Bicentennial Park, Inc., nonprofit.  Admission will be by donation at the door, $1 is suggested. In between shows, audience members may cast a $1 vote for their favorite story. The winning young playwright will receive a special gift. The Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theatre is located at 201 West Jefferson Street, Joliet. Concessions will be available. For more information: 815-724-376l.