Circle Theater Festival

Explore groundbreaking theater at The Flea Theater on six weekends from September through November. Experience the power of diversity and authentic storytelling through our captivating mix of artistic adaptations, gripping dramas, dark comedies, and psychological thrillers.

We break down the traditional gatekeeping of the theater world and provide a platform for both emerging and established artists. Expect performances that are as gripping as they are honest, with productions selected for their raw, unfiltered human experience.

• Intimate Performances: Experience theater in a less formal setting, dive into the story and connect with the performers.
• Unique connections: We invite theatergoers of all backgrounds to engage with performances that are as diverse as the city itself.
• Awards: Celebrating excellence in acting, writing, and festival debuts with awards. (like the Brian Cox Acting Award and the Lindsey Ferrentino Writing Award.)
• Experienced and Emerging Talent: Our performances showcase newcomers as well as seasoned actors and playwrights
• Engage with Real Theater: Witness contemporary themes, young and uncensored voices, and raw storytelling.

Please book your tickets for each of the performances individually!

• Princess Hamlet - A gender-bent tale of the prince(ss) of Denmark. Experience the classic tragedy with a fresh twist as the roles and perspectives are reimagined, shedding new light on the timeless themes of ambition, revenge, and madness.
  Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Private Struggle, Public Stage - Three short plays with hidden narratives. Unveil the personal battles that remain unseen in public life, exploring the intricacies of human emotions and the masks we wear.
  Time: 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

• PVT. Wars - A poignant and darkly humorous play set in a veterans' hospital, where three Vietnam War soldiers cope with the aftermath of their experiences. Their conversations reveal deep scars and the camaraderie that helps them survive.
  Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

• Shakespeare Unraveled - Three short plays reimagining Shakespeare's classics. Dive into inventive reinterpretations of the Bard's works, where familiar stories are given new dimensions and unexpected turns.
  Time: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

• Special Events - A new play every week! Join us for an ever-changing lineup of fresh and exciting performances, showcasing diverse talents and stories from around the world.
  Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

• Gidion’s Knot - A tense and emotional drama that unfolds during a parent-teacher conference. As a grieving mother and a conflicted teacher confront each other, painful truths about a young boy's life and death come to light, leading to an unforgettable climax.
  Time: 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Flea Theater, 20 Thomas Street, New York, United States