Round House Theatre Unveils 2026 New Play Festival Featuring Magic, Music, and Bold New Voices

Round House Theatre's fifth annual Bonnie Hammerschlag National Capital New Play Festival returns this February with an ambitious lineup showcasing some of the most innovative work in contemporary American theatre. Running from February 11 through March 15, 2026, the festival centers on the world premiere of Nothing Up My Sleeve, a one-man magic show that blurs the line between illusion and intimate storytelling, alongside four developmental readings that explore everything from prehistoric cave discoveries to the raw vulnerability of teenage life.

Nothing Up My Sleeve at Round House Theatre

The festival's main stage production reunites master illusionist Dendy with acclaimed playwright and director Aaron Posner, the creative duo behind Round House's celebrated 2022 production of The Tempest. In Nothing Up My Sleeve, Dendy takes audiences on a deeply personal journey through the history of magic while revealing his own path to becoming a magician. The show promises an evening of close-up wonder rather than Vegas-style spectacle.

"This show is not about grand illusion and razzmatazz! It's quite a lot simpler and more unassuming," says director and playwright Aaron Posner. "Dendy's tricks are very human scale. He invites you into a relationship with him that feels open and genuine, and is; except that he ends up doing all kinds of impossible things. I think there's something so wonderful about being fooled by the boy next door that just makes the magic he does even more wonderful."

The production brings together a powerhouse creative team, including scenic and projection designer Dan Conway, costume designer Jeannette Christiansen, lighting designer Thom Weaver, and sound designer Sartje Pickett. Sarah Cooney serves as casting director, with Che Wernsman as production stage manager.

Nothing Up My Sleeve runs February 11 through March 15 on Round House's main stage.

Four Developmental Readings Explore Diverse Theatrical Territory

The festival also features developmental readings from four distinctive playwrights, offering Washington-area audiences a first look at works in progress. All reading tickets are free, though reservations are required. Reservations open to subscribers and donors on January 26, with general public access beginning January 29.

The Cave by Lauren M. Gunderson (February 26 & 28) brings World War II-era France to life through the true story of four teenagers who discovered the Lascaux Cave paintings. This Round House Theatre commission is a heartfelt new musical that examines the complexities of human history through the eyes of young people making an extraordinary archaeological find.

Help! Help! Want. Want. Want. by JuCoby Johnson (February 27 & March 1) follows Charleigh as she escapes to a remote AirBnB seeking solitude, only to encounter a mysterious stranger who forces her to confront painful truths. Johnson's poetic meditation explores themes of love, regret, and the choice to keep living.

Noise in the Line by Matthew Capodicasa (March 5 & 7) tells the story of Graham, a cancer survivor who found comfort during his illness by listening to a podcast about others with his diagnosis. When he unexpectedly meets podcast host Blaise in real life, their encounter creates ripple effects that challenge everyone involved. The reading will feature a unique theatrical experience using Bluetooth headsets to create an intimate connection between actors and audience.

Marble Rooftop by Eliana Theologides Rodriguez (March 6 & 8) takes audiences inside a high school dance team bonding sleepover where seven teenagers navigate friendship, competition, and power dynamics. As alcohol flows and revelations emerge, the evening grows increasingly tense. Rodriguez's play offers a raw, honest look at the brutality and vulnerability of teenage girlhood.

Celebrating Bold Voices in American Theatre

Round House Theatre artistic director Ryan Rilette expressed enthusiasm for this year's festival lineup: "I'm thrilled for this year's festival of new work featuring some of the bold, imaginative voices that are shaping American theatre. It's also a pleasure to welcome Aaron Posner and Dendy back to Round House after their stunning production of The Tempest in 2022."

The Bonnie Hammerschlag National Capital New Play Festival represents Round House Theatre's commitment to developing and producing new work, giving audiences the opportunity to experience theatrical innovation before it reaches larger stages across the country.

For tickets and more information about the 2026 Bonnie Hammerschlag National Capital New Play Festival, visit Round House Theatre's website.