Celebration of New Writers graphic with a yellow typewriter, hand drawing, and crumpled paper balls on yellow background.

Staged Reading

Celebration of New Writers

Directed by Matthew Salazar-Thompson & Carla Navarro


Celebration of New Writers is an opportunity to showcase the works of a diverse and underrepresented pool of talented playwrights. This evening includes short new pieces YOU get to hear first, with a discussion afterward. Our team brings together local talents in the best light to introduce you to the next artistic wave.


This year’s Celebration will be co-directed by Matt Thompson and Carla Navarro, who return to guide this festival of new voices with their signature blend of insight, heart, and bold theatrical vision.


We invite audiences to experience these fresh works brought and to join us for an evening that celebrates creativity, and Cultural Culinary Connections.

February 23, 2026  |  7:30 PM

Westminster Presbyterian Church

(Point Loma, San Diego)

3598 Talbot St.

San Diego, CA 92106

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February 24, 2026  |  7:30 PM

MOXIE Theatre

6663 El Cajon Blvd

San Diego, CA 92115

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Meet the Writers


Headshot of Lisa Balderston

Lisa Balderston

“The Devils Dish”

Headshot of James Caputo

James Caputo

“Lasagna”

Headshot of Courtney Corey

Courtney Corey

“Bananas”

Headshot of Sean Gref

Sean Gref

“The Burger and The Duck”

Headshot of Peter Mitsopoulos

Peter Mitsopoulos

“Snailed”

Meet the Actors


Headshot of Teri Brown

Teri Brown

Actor

Headshot of Brittany Carrillo

Brittany Carrillo

Actor

Headshot of Jason Guffey

Jason Guffey

Actor

Headshot of Robert May

Robert May

Actor

Headshot of Salomon Maya

Salomon Maya

Actor

Meet the Creative Team


Headshot of Matthew Salazar-Thompson

Matthew Salazar-Thompson

Co-Director

Headshot of Carla Navarro

Carla Navarro

Co-Director