Discover the Heartbeat of New Theater

Explore the journey of The Inkwell Theater, where creativity and collaboration bring new plays to life.

Nurturing Playwrights Since 2004

Join Our Creative Journey

Be part of a community dedicated to developing groundbreaking theater.

About The Inkwell Theater

Since 2004, The Inkwell Theater has been a beacon for new playwrights in Los Angeles.

The Inkwell Theater is a writer’s theater company, dedicated to developing, supporting, and cultivating new plays and playwrights in the Los Angeles community. Focused exclusively on new works, we allow young artists and veterans alike to work in an environment of experimentation, freedom, and collaboration.
In 2004, under founding Artistic Director Elliot Shoenman, we first presented, “Only The Dead Know Burbank,” by Peter Lefcourt at The Hudson Theatre. From 2004 – 2012: “The Architect of Destiny”, “Sunset Park”, “Tango ‘Til Their Sore”, “All Steps Necessary”, “Moment In The Sun”, “Old Glories”, “The Ohio 4th”, the Ovation Award-nominated “AfterMath,” starring Annie Potts, “Fairy Tale Theatre: 18 & Over” at the Matrix, and “Heap Of Livin’ “, with Lawrence Pressman and Didi Conn. In 2012 new Artistic Director Daniel Shoenman & Associate Artistic Director Annie McVey launched the Inkwell Development LAB, working in residency at the VS. Theatre. The LAB has now developed more than 45 new plays, many of which have gone on to full stage productions and film adaptations. Also out of that program came our some of our recent productions, “Luigi” by Louise Munson, “Currency” by Jennie Webb, and “Sisters Three” by Jami Brandli.
We’re extremely proud of the work we’re doing at Inkwell and of the people involved in our productions. Over the years we’ve become a family, committed and passionate.

Meet Our Staff

Discover the passionate individuals driving The Inkwell Theater’s mission of artistic innovation.

Daniel Shoenman
Daniel Shoenman

Co-Artistic Director

Tessa Slovis
Tessa Slovis

Social Media Manager

Annie McVey
Annie McVey

Co-Artistic Director

Dana Schwartz
Dana Schwartz

Associate Producer

Elliot Shoenman
Elliot Shoenman

Executive Director

Zoia Wiseman
Zoia Wiseman

LAB Production Manager

Randee Trabitz
Randee Trabitz

Literary Manager

Lerner Fellowship Impact

Empowering Playwrights

The Lerner Fellowship provides essential support to playwrights, offering financial resources and a collaborative environment to develop their works.

Collaborative Workshops

Our workshops bring together playwrights, directors, and actors to refine scripts through hands-on collaboration and creative exchange.

Artistic Growth

Through the fellowship, playwrights gain invaluable insights and feedback, fostering artistic growth and innovation in their storytelling.

Playwright Development

New Works Incubation

We offer a nurturing space for playwrights to explore and refine their new works, ensuring their stories are ready for the stage.

Veteran Playwright Support

Our programs extend to seasoned playwrights, providing them with the resources and collaborative opportunities to continue evolving their craft.

Emerging Artist Programs

We are dedicated to discovering and supporting emerging playwrights, offering them a platform to showcase their unique voices and stories.

Join Us in Supporting New Voices

Become a part of The Inkwell Theater’s vibrant community by supporting our mission to nurture new and established playwrights. Whether you choose to donate, attend a performance, or advocate for our artists, your involvement makes a difference. Together, we can continue to foster creativity and innovation in the world of theater. Join us in our journey to bring fresh stories to the stage and help shape the future of performing arts.