Undergraduate Playwrights Workshop

Thursday, May 2, 2024 - 4:00 pm
Catalano Acting Studio (Room 172) | UI Theatre Building

Please be advised these readings include discussions of death, murder, suicide and suicidal ideation, war, drug use, sexual assault, grooming, infidelity, homophobia, trauma, and strong language.

Curse of Eternity
By Parker Johnson

Citizens of the Greek Underworld grapple with what eternity truly means.

The Gods of Art
By Charlie Schmelzer IV

This excerpt was, but is no longer the opening scene of the play: "The Gods of Art: a Comedy in 2 Acts" this ensemble comedy follows a group of college students focusing on roommates Tony, Oscar, Emmet, and Graham, who are all university art students as they deal with their personal lives, school, friends, and analyze what it means for a person to make art.

A Sweet Gift
By Arylaan Evans

A boyfriend tries to find a last-minute gift for his girlfriend on Valentine's Day–candy! But realizes he doesn't quite know what she'd like.

The (T-)Re(x)formation
By MK Shultz

An ensemble of teens explore the great mysteries of religion, adolescence, and fantastical legends at their Catholic summer camp.

Life, Death, and Basketball with Coach Q
By Leo Karp

When a reporter for the high school newspaper’s efforts to get school canceled on the anniversary of 9/11 are interrupted by gym class, he seeks revenge on the school’s beloved basketball coach and gym teacher.

This is My Body
By Darrin Terpstra

In the land of Southern Baptist Suburbia, two pastors negotiate the boundaries of their relationship.

Grown Backwards
By James Gulden

EFFECT: The world is forever changed, and a scientist named Emmett's life is turned backwards. CAUSE: In 1972, Emmett's family life is on the verge of collapse. He then discovers that time flows against our perception; effect precedes cause.

Mirrors Made of Shattered Glass
By Natanael Octavio Payán

Marco tries to convince Panchito he's perfect just the way he is.

In Times of Trial
By Kayla Hochman

Day Fades Into Night Fades Into Day
By Bridget Dieden

Unbeknownst to her father, a seven year old girl, Jillian, is resurrected as a spector by her mother three years after her passing. When the maid of the house's daughter goes exploring in Jillian's old toy room, she and Jillian form a bond over their mutual discontent and strike a deal.

Blood Comedy
By Ellen Yandel

Slaying Holofernes
By Alice Webster

When her relationship with a teacher and family friend crosses several lines, high school student Jude finds comfort and strength in the story of her favorite artist, Artemisia Gentileschi.

are you there spring? it's me, eleanor.
By Madison Godsey

In a state of psychosis, a woman has a run-in with who she was, four years ago.

Degenerates
By Anthony Courant

It's the end of the world!

Tickets:
Tickets for the Iowa New Play Festival will be available at the Theatre Building. Visit our website for more details.