Bringing Theater Back Home: A Milestone Dream Realized

On a warm February evening under the lush canopies of Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove, a dream that’s been quietly echoing for years finally found its voice. The launch party fundraiser for the Coconut Grove Theatre Festival, held on February 27, marked a powerful milestone—the return of Theater to the Grove.

From the clinking of champagne glasses to the heartfelt speeches from local artists and supporters, the event was more than just a party—it was a declaration. A declaration that this community believes in the arts, in storytelling, and in reclaiming its rightful place as one of Miami’s cultural epicenters.

Theater has a long legacy in the Grove, but for too long that stage stood silent. Thanks to a groundswell of local sponsors, donors, and visionary leaders, the curtain is finally rising again.

MATCHMAKING WITH A MISSION

Just a few weeks later, on March 15, the festival hosted its highly anticipated Matchmaking Day—a creative “speed dating” session where 16 South Florida playwrights and directors met face-to-face to discover their artistic partners. The energy in the room was electric, filled with laughter, bold ideas, and the undeniable spark of new collaborations.

From this dynamic event, eight powerful teams were born—each poised to bring a fresh, local voice to the stage this May.

MEET THE MAN BEHIND THE MOVEMENT: WILLIAM HECTOR

At the heart of this revival is William Hector, Miami-born playwright, novelist, and producer. A true Grove native and University of Miami graduate, William blends intellect with imagination. His writing spans everything from ancient Greek myths to modern comedy and even Kipling backpacks.

He’s also no stranger to the stage. William was one of four playwrights chosen for the prestigious Miami-Dade County Playwright Development Program (2015–2017), and is the recipient of a Knight Foundation New Work Miami grant for his bold, immersive piece G7: 2070.

Now, as Festival Director of the inaugural Coconut Grove Theatre Festival, William is helping lead a renaissance—one where local voices shine, and community takes center stage.

“My writing,” William says with a smile, “should be like good web design: clean, to the point, and include at least one dog.”

COUNTDOWN TO CURTAIN: MAY 8–11, 2025

The inaugural Coconut Grove Theatre Festival takes place May 8–11, hosted at the historic @womansclubofcoconutgrove1891. The lineup features eight original staged readings, crafted by South Florida’s most compelling playwrights and brought to life by a stellar roster of directors and actors.

Festival Playwrights:

• Andie Arthur
• Hannah Benitez
• Vanessa Garcia
• William Hector
• Alejandro Rodríguez
• Lolita Stewart-White
• Brandon Urrutia
• Michael Yawney

Festival Directors:

• Melissa Almaguer
• Karina Batchelor-Gómez
• Amy Coker
• Victoria Collado
• Charisma Jolly
• Maha McCain
• Gladys Ramírez
• Hattie Mae Williams

Each pairing promises something unique—authentic Miami stories told by the very artists who live, work, and dream here.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

The festival isn’t just a celebration of theater. It’s a call to action for the community to rally behind the arts. Whether you’re a lifelong Grove resident or a first-time visitor, there’s a place for you in this story.

🎟️ Get Tickets: cgtfest.com/tickets
🙌 Volunteer: cgtfest.com/volunteer
💌 Donate: cgtfest.com/donate

Special promotion: Buy 8 tickets and get 1 FREE with promo code 8THFREE at checkout!

THE CURTAIN RISES

As the countdown continues, excitement is building across the city. Thanks to community champions like the Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove Arts and Culture Subcommittee, generous sponsors, and the unstoppable drive of the festival team, the stage is set for a new era of storytelling in the Grove.

So mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to witness history in the making. Because this May, theater comes home.

See you at the festival. 🎭