The Reading Theater Project will invite local writers and performers to explore the spooky, strange, and macabre during The Terror Project 2026, a four-day series of playwriting workshops and performances scheduled for October 15-18 in Reading.
The event, which marks the second installment of the theater company’s 2026-2027 season, will take place at Holy Cross United Methodist Church, 329 N. 5th Street. Open to the general public, the program will provide opportunities for participants to develop original material, experiment with performance techniques, and present their work before a live audience.
“I hope to demystify the creative process and show creators and performers how to connect with an audience and discover that they’re capable of creating amazing work,” said Kimberly Patterson, a Reading-based playwright and director who will serve as the event’s “ghostess.”
The Terror Project will begin Thursday, October 15, at 7 p.m., when participants receive their writing prompts.
On Friday, October 16, the program will feature “No Fear, No Shame,” an opening reception followed by an open-mic evening featuring five-minute performances. The event will take place in a stripped-down laboratory-style setting without technical production elements, allowing participants to focus on their writing and performances. Performer registration begins at 6 p.m., with presentations starting at 7 p.m. in sign-up order.
Saturday’s activities will begin at 10 a.m. with the “Spook Salon,” featuring hands-on workshops and guided writing sessions led by Reading Theater Project artists. Participants will learn techniques for creating original monologues, adapting existing material, and staging performances while receiving direct audience feedback.
The day will conclude at 7 p.m. with “Monster Mashup,” a presentation featuring up to eight pieces selected from the workshops.
The final day, Sunday, October 18, will feature the “Ghoulish Expedition” at 3 p.m., showcasing existing short works and curated selections from Saturday’s workshops. A closing reception will follow.
Admission to the workshops is free, although advance reservations are strongly recommended. A $25 Trick-or-Treat package includes Friday’s opening reception and open-mic registration, Saturday evening’s performance, and Sunday’s afternoon presentation. Packages will also be available at the door.
Reservations can be made online at https://rtp.ludus.com.
Spooky Stacks Story Slam planned in West Reading
Following The Terror Project, the theater company will present the Spooky Stacks Story Slam on Wednesday, October 21, from 7 to 9 p.m. at The Velvet Spine Bookstore, 508 Penn Avenue in West Reading.
The evening will feature local performers sharing original short stories while attendees have an opportunity to browse and purchase books from the store’s curated selection.
The event will also serve as a fundraiser supporting Reading Theater Project’s 2026-2027 programming, with a fundraising goal of $1,500. Donations and sponsorships will help support the company’s upcoming productions and activities.
Tickets for the Spooky Stacks Story Slam are available at https://rtp.ludus.com.
The Reading Theater Project is a locally focused, semi-professional theater company serving Greater Reading and Berks County. The organization emphasizes collaboration, creative challenges, and inclusive theatrical experiences.
Additional information about the organization and its upcoming programming is available at https://readingtheaterproject.org or by calling 484-787-2287.