Meet Janine

As an award-winning playwright and dramaturg, Janine specializes in creating stories that spark imagination and creativity in young audiences. Currently a Fred Rogers Writers Neighborhood Fellow focused on preschool animation, Janine bring a unique blend of expertise and joy to children’s entertainment. Whether on the stage or screen, let's connect to bring magical stories to life for the next generation.
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Current Projects

What People Are Saying

Michele C.

"Scaredy Kat Presents" - New Play Exchange
If your theater serves young audiences, produce this excellent and triumphant piece! Easily the most endearing, believable characters, plot and dialogue involving young characters I've ever read. And the best treatment of a challenging situation faced by an increasing number of young people. What an enormous service this play will be for any community hoping to develop empathy and understanding. Brava.

Aly K

"Speechless" - New Play Exchange
As a former educator who worked with both ELLs and selectively mute students, this gorgeous, compassionate, and highly theatrical play for youth ticks all my personal boxes. All you need to produce this one is some willing bodies and a room and I'm confident magic will happen. This is such a sweet, moving, and surprisingly complex story that doesn't condescend to young audiences. I think it will mean so much for kids like these characters to see themselves reflected on stage!

Anastasia K

"Sing in Me, Muse" - New Play Exchange
Playing with mythology and the Renaissance, Janine Sobeck Knighton brings to life wonderous, humorful banter that gifts the audience with a window to the art of creating. Complete comedic fun (and character depth) for two young actors, this story reflects the various gifts all of us are able to contribute to the world through artistic passion and curiosity. A treasure trove of beautiful quotes: " I have my own stories to tell - but they might be made better when I am also helping others."