Paprika's Playwrights-in-Residence

I feel energized and old at the same time.  Energized by the talent, drive, and enthusiasm of so many young artists.  And old when I realize I’m a decade older than them.  But I just want to be their friend because they’re so cool.

This week marks the start of the 11th annual Paprika Festival, ‘Toronto’s only theatre festival celebrating the work of young and emerging artists, primarily those who are 21 and under.’

Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of working with the Playwrights in Residence.  I’m not sure if “working” is the right term (although scheduling busy young pro-stars is pretty work-y).

My job mostly consisted of getting the group together over tea, stew, or ice cream and having them discuss, explain, and help each other through their writing challenges and successes on their path towards a new script.  They are all much more eloquent and insightful than I have ever been.

This week, their creations are being read at the Tarragon Theatre, along with all the other amazing works and productions by young Paprika artists.

If you’re in Toronto and want to see and hear outstanding new work, come check it out.

It’s in the Tarragon’s awesome Extra Space, it’s only $5, and, in a few years, you could very well end up saying “I knew them when…”

And you will be humbled by the amazing talent of this group of young emerging artists, there is no question.

The Paprika Festival runs March 1st-10th at the Tarragon Theatre in Toronto.  For the schedule of shows and events, check out www.paprikafestival.com

This post originally appeared on in80plays.wordpress.com-