What is Soapbox?

Soapbox Stageworks began in Philadelphia by Karen Devaney, a playwright, performer, director and producer. She wanted to create a space for new works to evolve, grow and thrive.

Now located in the gorgeous Central Coast of California, we at Soapbox want to explore plays and playwrights, that have diligently worked their craft and are looking to workshop their new material. Collaboration with the community along with local performers, directors, and playwrights. We want to give back to our community, by donating 10% of all performances to a local nonprofit.

The hope here at Soapbox is to grow as a local Theatre as well as expand globally to include playwrights from around the world.

Karen Devaney

Karen grew up outside of Washington D.C. and was exposed to the rich texture of a multicultural upbringing. Her passion for stories in all their forms, also stems from being raised in an Irish/Italian family where storytelling was like food, both were an integral part of life. Karen discovered theatre in second grade, but was too shy to peel herself off the sidelines. When she returned to college, after working as a nurse with two young children in tow, her passion for live performance and the collaborative nature of page to stage was reawakened. She has been honored with The Irene Ryan award for performing, as well as audience choice awards, and currently has a screenplay that is optioned for production.