The annual event draws distinguished artists from throughout the entertainment industry who join forces in an extreme theatre endeavor: writing, directing and performing six original short plays from the ground up in 24 hours, Nov. 15-16, with performances on the 16th. Proceeds from the performance support New York's Urban Arts Partnership in its efforts to close the achievement gap in NYC’s underserved public schools.

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Ari Graynor, Jesse Eisenberg, Julia Stiles, Molly Ringwald, Questlove Spin Theatrical Magic in the 24 Hour Plays

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This year's event also featured actors Sasha Alexander,  Geoffrey Arend, Jason Biggs, Kevin Daniels, Rachel Dratch, Edie Falco, Dan Finnerty, Ben Foster, Ashley Fink, Ari Graynor, Taran Killam, John Krasinski, David Krumholtz, Margarita Levieva, Adrienne Moore, Diane Neal, Rosie Perez, Jay Pharoah, Phylicia Rashad, Molly Ringwald, Zuliekha Robinson, Julia Stiles, Cecily Strong, Amber Tamblyn, Tracie Thoms and Vanessa Williams.

The event showcased the work of playwrights David Lindsay-Abaire, Rachel Axler, David Cross, Dael Orlandersmith and Jonathan Marc Sherman. Directors include Andy Fickman, Thomas Kail, Leigh Kilton Smith, Patricia McGregor, Kathy Najimi and Eduardo Ponti. Special musical guest was The Filharmonic.

The marathon began at 10 PM Nov. 15. Each actor shared a costume piece and a prop, and revealed a special skill and something they’ve always wanted to do onstage, after which each writer was tasked with composing a ten-minute play by 6 AM this morning. Directors return at 9 AM to meet with their cast for the first time. Less than 12 hours later, the plays debut in front of a live audience at 8 PM. Visit 24hourplays.com for more information. For ticket information email [email protected]