MINI THEATRE REVIEW:

“PLAYS BY YOUNG WRITERS '99”

Playwrights Project at the Cassius Carter Centre Stage

KPBS SUBMISSION DATE: NOVEMBER 13, 1999

The settings range from the South in the 1840s to somewhere between this life and the next. The writers range from age 13-18. The quality ranges, too. It's the annual presentation of the winning productions from the statewide competition of young playwrights. Only one winner this year, Lisa Asunama, age 13, is from San Diego. The opening night plays were by the two older writers: a delicious pairing of "After Angie," 17 year-old Hilary Rubin's bittersweet contemplation of teens dealing with the death of a friend (a bit long but insightful), and the hilarious but seemingly unfinished "Checkmate Charlie," by 18 year-old Joel Maguen, who clearly has a creative voice, but not an ending to his play. It's a treat to get a peek at the talents of tomorrow.

Where: Playwrights Project at the Old Globe's Cassius Carter Centre Stage in Balboa Park

When: through November 21; Wednesday-Sunday: some morning, afternoon and evening performances (10:00, 2:00 or 7:30)

How long: varies with the 2 plays presented at any given performance

How much: $7-12

Contact: 619-239-8222

©1999 Patté Productions Inc.