Igniting Creativity in Los Angeles
Join us in celebrating the art of storytelling as we nurture and showcase the next generation of playwrights and their groundbreaking works.
Fostering New Voices in Theater
The Inkwell Theater is dedicated to the development and support of new plays and playwrights within the vibrant Los Angeles community. Our mission is to provide a collaborative environment where writers, directors, and actors can experiment and grow. Through our unique Playwrights Development LAB, we offer a space for creative exploration, allowing artists to refine their craft and bring innovative stories to life. We believe in the power of collaboration to transform scripts into compelling stage productions, fostering a supportive network for emerging talent.
Last Season From Inkwell
Paper Walls
a new play by Elliot Shoenman
Directed by Darin Anthony
Featuring: Derek Manson, Casey J. Adler, Dana Schwartz, Warren Davis
Paper Walls tells the story of the Goldman family, profoundly affected by Hitler’s rise to power, who find themselves desperately fleeing persecution while awaiting entry into the United States. Restrictive U.S. immigration policies and antisemitism intensified their struggle, and this poignant drama explores themes strikingly relevant to contemporary times.
Our Journey Through the Years
Since our inception in 2004, The Inkwell Theater has been at the forefront of nurturing new theatrical works.
Founding and First Production (2004)
The Inkwell Theater was Co-founded by Artistic Director Elliot Shoenman and Producing Director Daniel Shoenman, debuting with Peter Lefcourt's 'Only The Dead Know Burbank' at The Hudson Theatre.
Launch of the Development LAB (2012)
Under fresh leadership by new Artistic Director Daniel Shoenman and Associate Artistic Director Annie McVey, the Inkwell Development LAB was established, focusing on collaborative play development.
Expansion of the LAB Program (2020)
The LAB program expanded, moving to the Broadwater Black Box, having developed over 35 new plays, many of which transitioned to full productions and film adaptations.
New Leadership and Continued Growth (2024)
Daniel Shoenman and Annie McVey became Co-Artistic Directors, growing the LAB, building an incusive network of LA artists, and continuing to foster a dynamic environment for playwrights and artists.
Innovative Collaboration
Playwrights' Workshop
Our LAB brings playwrights into the rehearsal room, fostering a dynamic environment for script development.
Directors' Insight
Directors provide unique perspectives, enhancing the storytelling and structure of new plays.
Actors' Contribution
Actors bring scripts to life, offering invaluable feedback through performance and interpretation.
Collaborative Process
We emphasize teamwork, allowing artists to experiment and refine their work collectively.
Max K. Lerner Fellowship
Supporting playwrights with financial and artistic resources to advance their creative projects.
Successful Productions
Our LAB has led to numerous successful stage productions and film adaptations.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Theater
Become a vital part of The Inkwell Theater’s journey by supporting the creation of groundbreaking new plays. Your involvement, whether through donations, volunteering, or attending our performances, fuels the artistic spirit that drives our mission. Together, we can nurture the voices of emerging playwrights and bring their stories to life. Join us in this collaborative endeavor and help us continue to innovate and inspire the Los Angeles theater community.