At Best of Best Review, we are proud to highlight the incredible talent shaping the future of theater. This year, we are thrilled to announce Jen McAuliffe as the recipient of the Best Rising Star for Writing in Theater in New York City of 2026. With her unique voice, sharp wit, and fearless approach to storytelling, Jen has established herself as a standout talent in the theatrical world.

A Fresh Voice in the Theatre World

Jen McAuliffe is a writer and director whose work pushes the boundaries of comedy and emotional depth, creating stories that are both engaging and thought-provoking. Her recent play, Chip on Her Shoulder, which had a successful run in the Melbourne Fringe Festival, is an example of her remarkable ability to blend humor with profound emotional truths. The play, ranked #4 as a crowd-pleaser by audience votes at the festival, has captivated audiences with its honest portrayal of modern womanhood and the complexity of human experience.

Comedy with Heart

What sets Jen apart from her contemporaries is her ability to create comedy that is both razor-sharp and deeply human. Her writing thrives in the uncomfortable intersection between humor and pain, making audiences laugh one moment and reflect the next. Her work is entertaining yet vulnerable, and it’s this blend of wit and truth that makes her a unique force in the theater world.

A New York Debut to Watch

As Jen brings Chip on Her Shoulder to the New York Fringe Festival, her debut in the city is poised to make waves. Known for its bold, unconventional approach to storytelling, New York’s theater scene is the perfect backdrop for Jen’s work. She is excited to share her play with the city’s diverse and dynamic audience, hoping it will resonate in a way that is both intimate and expansive.

Jen’s Vision for Modern Theatre

Jen’s work is driven by a deep understanding of ambition, shame, resilience, and identity, especially through the lens of female experience. Her scripts blend sharp humor with unflinching emotional truths, creating work that is not only entertaining but also challenging. Jen is dedicated to telling stories that are relatable and meaningful, offering audiences a chance to laugh, cry, and ultimately see themselves in the characters on stage.

A Career on the Rise

With an extensive background in advertising, media, and TV production, Jen brings a unique perspective to the stage. She is currently mentored by Steve Leff of Curb Your Enthusiasm fame and has earned recognition for her talent through her O-1B visa, which highlights her extraordinary ability in the arts. Jen's journey from Melbourne to New York is a testament to her hard work, creativity, and determination to bring her stories to life in front of an audience that will understand and appreciate them.

Celebrating Jen’s Achievement

Jen McAuliffe is an undeniable talent, and her work has already made a significant impact in the theater world. We are proud to recognize her as Best Rising Star for Writing in Theater in New York City of 2026. Her debut in New York is just the beginning of what promises to be a brilliant career, and we look forward to seeing where her voice takes the stage next.

For more on Jen McAuliffe and her work, visit Jen McAuliffe’s website.

Congratulations, Jen! Your remarkable talent and bold storytelling continue to inspire, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.