An unexpected encounter in a French cafe is among the stories set to entertain audiences when the Lake Macquarie One Act Play Festival returns to Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba this Saturday 28 March.
Featuring 12 short, sharp and original plays, the annual festival brings together local, state, national and even international playwrights whose works are performed by local Lake Mac artists following a dedicated rehearsal period.
Among them is Havez You Le Sucre? by playwright Louise Cowan - a light-hearted story in which two couples bond over borrowed sugar, smuggled vegemite and Tim Tams at a French cafe, only to discover they share an unexpected Novocastrian connection.
Ms Cowan said writing became an important creative outlet during a challenging period supporting her father through illness.
"I would sit by his hospital bed and talk to him," she said.
"I started telling him stories, trying to make him wake up and make him laugh."
"I created characters about the people I met - and funny stories about who they may be and why they were in hospital."
"There is something so amazing about watching your work coming to life by a cast of actors and directors."
"I am loving every step of the journey."
Festival Director Charlotte De Wit said this year's program once again offered a vibrant mix of themes and styles.
"We're proud to showcase an exciting cross-section of writing from across Australia and beyond," she said.
"Each play brings its own voice, exploring contemporary ideas in ways that are funny, thought-provoking or emotionally powerful."
"It's an event that truly celebrates the diversity of our performing arts community."
Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Arts, Culture and Tourism Jacqui Hemsley said the event was an example of Council's commitment to strengthening local creative industries.
"This festival encourages artistic growth by giving writers, directors and performers the opportunity to explore new ideas in a professional environment," she said.
"It brings our community together to celebrate the breadth of talent we're very fortunate to have in Lake Mac."
This year's lineup includes works spanning comedy, drama and everything in between.
With a $1900 prize pool recognising outstanding performance, acting and emerging talent, the One Act Play Festival continues to support artistic development within Lake Macquarie while offering audiences an engaging afternoon of live theatre.
Lake Macquarie One Act Play Festival
Saturday 28 March 2026
2pm to 5:30pm
Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba
Tickets are on sale now. Visit arts.lakemac.com.au/Events/One-Act-Play-Festival-2026 to book.
