Brenton Kniess
writer + director
Selected Plays
I have been writing plays since 2021. Writing provided me to experience a new type of theatrical experience that has excited and challenged me. To read any of these works, or to request performance/royalty rights, please visit my New Play Exchange profile which features my complete collection of plays. Run times are approximate.
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Therese
4 Actors (2F/2M), 120 minutes
Recommended Audience: 15+
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FULL-LENGTH MURDER MYSTERY. Renowned concert pianist, Robert Davins is reaching the end of his career. As his familial and professional life falls apart, Robert decides to host a dinner party to gather everyone close to him one last time. As an argument breaks out among the group, Robert mysteriously ends up murdered.
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"Kniess's artistry in crafting a thrilling narrative is undeniable, drawing the audience into the enigmatic world of the Davins family. The exploration of family dynamics, the consequences of obsession, and the delicate dance between past and present adds layers of depth to the storyline." - James Perry, NPX
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THERESE premiered at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point in April 2023, directed by Brenton Kniess
The Peculiar Puppets of Philip Platt
4 Actors (1F/1M, 2 ANY), 15 minutes
Recommended Audience: 17+
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SHORT DRAMEDY. Philip Platt comes back to his apartment to be visited by his friend and neighbor, Kate, who expresses concern over Philip's well-being as he grieves a loss. As Philip begins to talk through his feelings, two old friends attempt to help Philip through his grief in a very peculiar manner.
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"The Peculiar Puppets of Philip Platt is a heartwarming tale that will leave audiences touched and inspired." - Neil Radtke, NPX
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THE PECULIAR PUPPETS OF PHILIP PLATT premiered at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point in April 2022, directed by Brenton Kniess
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Melt
2 Actors (1F/1M), 10 minutes
Recommended Audience: 16+
TEN MINUTE DARK COMEDY. Stacey and her boyfriend, David, own an ice cream truck that has been within Stacey's family for over 60 years. David is looking towards the future of their relationship, while Stacey just wants to keep her family business thriving. Will this relationship freeze up in this cold dark comedy?
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"Brenton Kniess plays clever tricks on his audience with this startling short play. What begins as a benignly gentle romantic dialogue takes a macabre twist you won’t see coming. One scoop or two? A perfect addition to any festival of horror shorts." - Robert Weibezahl, NPX
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MELT is seeking to have its world premiere.
The Five Stages: 5 Short Plays About Life, Death, and Love
6-15 Actors (6F/6M, 3 ANY), 60 minutes
Recommended Audience: 17+
COLLECTION. Playwright Brenton Kniess takes audiences on five different journeys where characters face the trials and tribulations of life, death, and love. Ranging from comedy to drama, science fiction to horror, audiences can expect the unexpected when they experience The Five Stages.
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"Imagine the absurd world of early Terrence McNally, addressed with the manic madness of David Ives. Brenton-Kneiss-Land is a Sad-Mad-Happy-Frightened-Brave world of dreamers and hopers, and is destined to attract theater makers and theatergoers of a similar temperament." - Kerr Lockhart, NPX
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THE PECULIAR PUPPETS OF PHILIP PLATT premiered at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point in April 2022, directed by Brenton Kniess
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Pillow Talk
3 Actors (2F/1M), 30 minutes
Recommended Audience: 17+
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ONE-ACT DARK COMEDY. After what seemed to be a failed date, Olive contemplates what she needs to do to get into a long-term relationship. Ella, Olive's roommate wants to help her, but Ella believes that for Olive to get into a relationship she'll need to stop collecting pillows, which Ella knows to be a dangerous addiction. Will Olive give up this fluffy fascination for love?
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"Pillow Talk might be short on romance, but it's long on comedy, wickedly funny dark comedy. Great setup, pacing, suspense, a quirky character (really quirky!), and a surprise ending. Terrific!" - Kim E. Ruyle, NPX
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PILLOW TALK is seeking to have its world premiere.