An exclusive one-night event, “Best in Ten,” organized by the Carpenter Square Theatre, took place on March 29th, 2025. Now celebrating its 21st year, this special occasion was filled with music, culinary delights, and new theatrical works for theater supporters. Each year, hand-selected scripts from Oklahoma submissions are showcased, and this time around, they were debuted during the fundraiser.

This year’s honorees—Ric and Jennie Penner along with Amanda Lee—were celebrated for their dedication to the Oklahoma City arts community. The evening commenced with a feast from local eateries, featured a silent auction benefiting artists and the theater, and presented ten-minute plays interspersed with musical performances. Through these activities, the event honored playwrights, philanthropists, and volunteers while raising crucial funds for operations.

Honoring Artistic Contributions

At the heart of “Best in Ten” lies the recognition of individuals who have significantly impacted the arts scene in Oklahoma City. This year, Ric and Jennie Penner and Amanda Lee were acknowledged for their unwavering support. Their contributions span various domains, enhancing both the cultural fabric and community spirit of the city.

The celebration began with guests indulging in delectable offerings from local establishments such as Harvey Bakery and Spanish Cove. Following this delightful start, a silent auction buzzed with excitement in the theater lobby. Donated packages included handmade crafts, theater tickets, restaurant vouchers, and more. Proceeds directly supported the artists and the theater itself. Additionally, a wine pull at $20 per bottle further contributed to the fundraising efforts, with wines generously provided by local donors. Attendees also enjoyed complimentary valet parking, adding to the seamless experience of the evening.

Spotlight on Emerging Talent

Beyond honoring distinguished figures, “Best in Ten” serves as a platform for showcasing emerging talent through new theatrical works. This year, four ten-minute plays graced the stage, each offering a unique perspective and captivating audiences with their distinct narratives.

Under the direction of seasoned professionals, the plays “The Elevator” by Michelle Swink, “What’s Best for the Show” by Terry Veal, “Ten Miles East of Okemah” by Lance Brittan, and “Lisa Dunn: Pastor Wife Performance Coach” by Rick Allen Lippert were performed. These selections highlighted the diversity of writing styles and themes present within Oklahoma City's artistic community. Musical interludes featuring Amanda Lee, Lisa Reagan Love, and Jeremy Small added an extra layer of charm, with Jake Johnson providing piano accompaniment. Performers like Crystal Barby and Holly McNatt expressed enthusiasm about participating in such a meaningful event, emphasizing its importance in fostering local talent and engaging audiences. Through these performances, Carpenter Square Theatre not only celebrates existing achievements but also nurtures future possibilities, ensuring continued growth and innovation in the arts.