A 2010 NPR segment stated: "For 20 years, in the oldest town in West Virginia, new plays have had a home and a loyal audience.

[6] It has the goal of producing and developing new American theater, specifically plays that deal with contemporary issues and strive to challenge and entertain audiences.

[7] Through the summer of 2013, the festival has produced 100 plays, by 73 American playwrights, including 37 world premieres, 9 of which were commissioned.

The festival operates under agreements from AEA, United Scenic Artists, and the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers.

- a theater immersion program for young adults (ages 14–18)[37] In 2013, the festival hosted the American Theatre Critics Association Annual Conference.

[41] Phase One houses the CATF administration offices and one of large studios has been adapted for a third performance space.

[45] In 2013, the festival brought $3 million of revenue to Shepherdstown, and attracted nearly 14,000 people — primarily from the D.C. region, but also from 30-plus states and various foreign countries.