The Gift Theatre is marking a major milestone with TEN 25th, the latest edition of its beloved 10-minute play festival, which will be presented at A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N Wells St. in Chicago, from March 25 – April 4, 2026. The fast-paced evening of new short works is part of The Gift’s upcoming 25th Anniversary “Homecoming” season and will showcase original, 10-minute world premiere plays created and performed by a dynamic group of Chicago artists. This year’s festival features brand-new pieces from noted local playwrights John Gawlik, Jennifer Rumberger, Gregory Fenner, Kimberly Dixon-Mays, Dolores Diaz, Stephanie Alison Walker, Emilio Williams, and Brett Neveu, brought to life by Gift ensemble members Cyd Blakewell, Erica Weiss, Gregory Fenner, Jennifer Glasse, Jennifer Rumberger, Jim Farruggio, John Gawlik, Kenny Mihlfried, Pat Weber, Paul D’Addario and Shanésia Davis.

Ten 25th presented by The Gift Theatre at A Red Orchid Theatre

TEN 25th arrives as The Gift Theatre prepares to celebrate 25 years of intimate, character-driven storytelling and looks ahead to an ambitious new chapter. Joining The Gift Theatre ensemble for this landmark season are Jennifer Aparicio, Shanésia Davis, Angela Morris, Jennifer Rumberger, Netta Walker and Patrick Weber, expanding the company’s artistic family as it plans a Winter Gala and two Mainstage productions to be announced soon. Artistic Directors Jennifer Glasse and Brittany Burch note the momentum behind the scenes, saying, “Following the sold-out world premiere of Cygnus last spring, we embarked on a full strategic planning initiative that renewed our mission, clarified our vision and values, and set a solid course for The Gift’s future. We’re thrilled to welcome longtime members of our Gift community into the ensemble, strengthening the artistic family at the heart of our work. As we look ahead, we’re recommitting to our origins in Jefferson Park and actively exploring pathways to bring The Gift home again. Our 25th Anniversary ‘Homecoming’ season reflects that spirit—beginning with a winter gala and continuing this spring with TEN 25th at A Red Orchid Theatre. We can’t wait to share what’s next.”

Rooted in its storefront origins in Jefferson Park, The Gift Theatre has built its reputation on intimate productions that prioritize connection between artist and audience. The company is known for work that is accessible and inclusive, with programming that is not tied to one genre but instead guided by emotionally rich, truthful storytelling. TEN 25th embodies that mission in miniature, offering audiences a rapid-fire series of stories that span tones and styles while remaining grounded in the human moments at the center of each play. As The Gift celebrates 25 years and looks toward returning “home” in the years ahead, this special anniversary edition of its signature 10-minute festival gives Chicago theatergoers a vivid snapshot of the company’s collaborative spirit and creative future.