The Don McCann Memorial Playwrighting Showcase honors the memory of Donald J. McCann, who was a writer, director, former President and longtime historian for the Oswego Players. A lifetime resident of Oswego, McCann made his mark professionally as a reporter for the Oswego Palladium Times and was a member of the Oswego Players for over fifty years.
The annual one act playwriting contest was established in McCann’s name and provides New York State amateur playwrights with the opportunity to get their work read, judged and performed. Patricia Speelman, a contest judge, said that “what makes a good one-act play is what makes a good three-act play or five-act play: fully developed characters, compelling storytelling, captivating plot, surprises, and a conclusion that encourages discussion among audience members in their cars on the way home”. The full judging panel used every ounce of their considerable theatrical knowledge to whittle the 146 entries down to the contest winners.
The Oswego Players 88th Season will showcase the winners of the Don McCann Playwriting Contest by performing the first, second and third place winners. A tie for third place means audiences will be treated with four, one act plays performed each day over the weekend March 6th – 8th.
In addition to these amateur playwrights having their works performed, the Don McCann Playwriting Contest also provides a platform for individuals making their directorial debut. The 2026 Showcase features two new Directors for the Oswego Players, along with a returning stalwart.
Kimberly Vogt is no stranger to the theatre community, having been involved in several productions in the local area. “Although I have directed before,” she said, “it was while attending the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC, so I am excited to make my directorial debut here at the Oswego Players.”
Shanya (Shy) Sims, originally from Manhattan, studied at SUNY Oswego and decided to remain in Oswego after she graduated a couple of years ago. She works as a Direct Support Professional in the local area, working with people with special needs. “It feels like I’ve acted forever,” she said. “So, this year is my opportunity to turn my hand to directing.”
Sherri Metz has been involved with the Oswego Players since 1988. She met her husband on stage, and their daughter has also been involved in theater. She particularly loves directing comedies, in part as she says because, “I’m a goof. I love to laugh and make people laugh.” She is providing Directorial mentorship to the new Directors.
The 2026 Don McCann Memorial Playwrighting Showcase will be performed at the Frances Marion Brown Theater at 32 Barbara Donohue Drive, Oswego over the weekend March 6th – March 8th. Showtimes are 7:30pm Friday and Saturday, and 2:00pm Sunday. For more information and ticket sales please go to https://oswegoplayers.org/ or for phone reservations call the Box Office at 315-343-5138. All proceeds benefit the Showcase fund.
The Oswego Players acknowledges the generous financial contributions of Chiasson’s Heating and Air Conditioning.
Pictured are Sherri Metz (l) and Shy Sims (r) planning their performances for the 2026 Don McCann Memorial Playwrighting Showcase.