Tiny Public Assembly Theatre stages 3 new 12-minute plays a month - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Emma Madden

March 2, 2026

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Tiny Public Assembly Theatre stages 3 new 12-minute plays a month - Los Angeles Times In a unique twist on community theater, the nonprofit Public Assembly Theatre is making waves in Los Angeles by producing three short, one-act plays every month. Founded in 2018, this innovative company redefines traditional theater by developing and performing original pieces within just four weeks. The shows are staged in unconventional venues like Masonic lodges and American Legions, drawing a diverse audience that includes young locals, Hollywood stars like Brie Larson and Jena Malone, and even Oscar-winning director Daniel Kwan of *Everything Everywhere All At Once*. The theatre’s approach is fast-paced and democratic: attendees can submit play ideas at the end of each performance, with submissions encouraged from anyone who has attended a show. These scripts are then workshopped over weeks by professional curators and directors, resulting in three polished pieces for the next month’s lineup. This rapid creation process allows the plays to tackle timely cultural issues while offering a stark contrast to the slow-moving Hollywood system. Public Assembly’s model is designed to break down barriers in both theater and film. Founding artistic directors Satya Bhabha, Clara Aranovich, and Alexander Tavitian created the company as a response to the high costs, lengthy development times, and creative interference common in the film industry. By emphasizing quick turnaround and community involvement, they aim to foster raw creativity and experimentation. The theatre’s success lies in its ability to create a vibrant, inclusive community around its performances. Guests are encouraged to engage with the process, from submitting ideas to shouting out themes for future shows. This interactive approach has attracted not only local audiences but also prominent figures in entertainment who appreciate the passion and energy of Public Assembly’s productions. This innovative model matters because it challenges traditional notions of theater and creativity. By democratizing access to storytelling and prioritizing speed over perfection, Public Assembly is proving that bold, fresh ideas can thrive outside the mainstream system. For anyone interested in experimental theatre or the future of creative industries, Public Assembly offers a compelling example of how community-driven art can flourish.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/2/2026