Saturday, July 11, 2026 | 7:30PM
Six playwrights. Exciting new works.
An evening of discovery, creativity, and connection.
6 Plays + Engaging
Monologues
Click for last year’s Highlights!
2024 Highlights
Each year, we bring together exciting AAPI playwrights, directors, and actors for an evening of original theatrical storytelling, giving audiences the rare opportunity to experience new works.
From laugh-out-loud moments to deeply moving reflections, our festival celebrates the richness, complexity, and imagination of AAPI voices across generations and lived experiences.
Whether you’re a theater lover, artist, supporter of AAPI storytelling, or simply curious to discover something new, this festival invites you into the room where stories begin.
Our Featured Playwrights
Jenny Nguyen Nelson
Suhashini Krishnan
Tasi Alabastro
Phil Wong
Anne Yumi Kobori
Aimee Suzara
Associate Artistic Producer Reed Flores
Directed by Reed Flores & Melissa Mei Jones
Co-sponsored with San Jose Stage
“I laughed, I cried, and loved
the heartfelt stories & monologues”
Joanne L, Festival Attendee
“I was surprised at the range & depth
of the 10 minute plays”
Stephen M, Festival Attendee
“ CATS gave me an artistic home”
Jeffrey Lo, Artistic Producer
Extend Your Festival Weekend: Discover the Cultural Heart of San Jose
San Jose Japantown Cultural District Walking Tour
Sunday, July 12, 2026 | 10 am - 12 pm
Make your AAPI Playwright Festival weekend even more memorable with a special guided journey through San Jose Japantown’s newly designated Cultural District.
Led by the Japanese American Museum of San Jose, this walking tour explores the rich artistic, cultural, and historical stories woven throughout one of the Bay Area’s most vibrant communities. Along the way, discover public art, galleries, community landmarks, and the layered histories of Heinlenville, San Jose’s historic Chinatown, and the early Pinoytown Filipino American community.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to familiar streets, this is a unique opportunity to experience the deeper cultural roots, creative spirit, and living history that make Japantown so special.
Special Parking Bonus: The tour takes place during the vibrant Obon Festival weekend, when Japantown comes alive with tradition, music, food, and celebration. Reserved parking will be provided for tour participants on Taylor Street.
Presented in partnership with the Japanese American Museum of San Jose
Tour is limited to the first 25 registered participants
About Contemporary Asian Theater Scene (CATS)
Celebrating AAPI voices through storytelling, performance, and community
