New TenTastic Theatre Festival to showcase 10-minute formats

1 month ago 19

A fresh and fast-paced stage experience is coming to life. The TenTastic Theatre Festival, a brand-new celebration of bold 10-minute theatrical presentations, is set to début at the Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts, UWI, on May 31 and June 1.

Conceived as a dynamic space for intermediate and professional writers, directors, and producers, TenTastic offers a powerful alternative to traditional theatre, delivering punchy, thought-provoking presentations in tight 10-minute formats. With every piece bringing its own energy, the two-day event promises a packed line-up of original and adapted, imaginative storytelling.

Behind this innovative project are producers RAW Management Ltd and Prunella Productions Ltd, with co-founders Nadean Rawlins and Shantol Jackson at the helm.

“I believe in the power of theatre to inspire, challenge, and unite us,” says Nadean Rawlins, co-creator and managing director of RAW. “Through this festival, we want to create a platform where creative expression can flourish. With each 10-minute performance offering a unique story, audiences can expect two days filled with diverse, engaging, and entertaining theatre.”

For co-creator Shantol Jackson, the festival is also deeply personal.

Headlines Delivered to Your Inbox

“I grew up on stage. It keeps me honest and authentic,” Jackson shares. “Supporting and creating platforms like this isn’t just important, it’s necessary. It’s something I’m committed to doing, always.”

Together, they envision TenTastic as more than just an event, it’s a cultural movement designed to fuel creative experimentation and elevate Jamaican theatre. The festival also has strong commercial support from MegaMart Ltd, Jamaica’s first hypermarket, stepping forward as title sponsor.

“We’re proud to support the inaugural TenTastic Theatre Festival, which celebrates our rich local talent and storytelling,” says a representative from MegaMart.

“This initiative is more than entertainment, it’s a cultural bridge that connects our local communities with the diaspora. Just as MegaMart offers the best of both worlds, from fresh local produce to trusted international ingredients, we’re honoured to be part of a festival that showcases the depth and diversity of Jamaican creativity, both on home soil and overseas.”

Audiences can expect high-impact theatre in ten-minute bursts, filled with raw emotion, social commentary, and artistic excellence. The format encourages sharp writing and fearless direction, offering a unique two nights of storytelling that demands your full attention, and each night is a brand new theatrical adventure

“TenTastic is theatre ... condensed, refined, and unforgettable,” adds Rawlins.

entertainment@gleanerjm.com

Read Entire Article