UMW Theatre

So long, Stratford!

Over the past three days, our travelers have had a lovely time exploring Stratford, Ontario, Canada and attending the Stratford Festival. Surrounded by lush gardens, gorgeous river views, and simply incredible theatre, we’ve had a wonderful time in Canada so far. We’re sad to say goodbye to Stratford, but so excited for our next leg of the trip…

Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Shaw Festival, here we come!

Just ONE WEEK until our first-ever trip to Canada! 🍁

We're heading to the legendary Shaw & Stratford Theatre Festivals with an incredible group of theatre lovers, and the show lineup is absolutely SPECTACULAR! This is going to be a week we'll never forget.

At UMW Theatre, we believe in bringing our patrons unforgettable experiences beyond our mainstage productions—whether it's an afternoon of theatre in Washington, DC or international adventures like this one. UMW Theatre Travel is where culture, community, and world-class theatre collide!

📍 This time: Canada
❓ Next time: Who knows where we'll go!

Don't miss out on our next adventure! Get on our mailing list NOW so you're the first to know when we announce our next destination. Follow along as we share highlights from the festivals!

Visit www.FredTix.com to join our mailing list today!

Summer break is here, but our students aren't slowing down—they're working hard and gaining real-world experience in professional theatres!

Regan Bailey is spending his summer as a Carpenter at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, helping build nine shows across three different theaters over their 12-week season.

In just his first week, Regan has been cutting flooring, installing platforms, learning overhead rigging techniques, and even making trips to Philadelphia to pick up scenery (and trying an authentic Philly cheesesteak!).

Here's what Regan had to say:
"It's been an absolute blast! Everyone's been so nice and helpful, I'm already making new friends and professional connections... I've traveled, learned, and grown a bit. I'm excited for what the future will bring!"

We are SO proud of you, Regan! Keep learning, keep building, and keep making us proud!

Katherine Farmer '26 received this year's Robert E. Ingham Award in Theatre honoring the graduating senior who the faculty believe has embraced fully the ideals of the department and who has contributed most to the excellence of our production program. Bob Ingham was a successful actor, director, playwright and teacher who served on our faculty for many years. Before his death in 1992, Bob's play, Custer, received widespread attention following its premiere at the O'Neill Theatre Center. This award remembers Bob's passion for the theatre, and his commitment to teaching our students.

Throughout her time at UMW, Katherine has been driven to learn as much as she can across multiple areas of theatre. As a theatre major with an arts administration minor, she has immersed herself in every aspect of our program—from stage management to scenic design work. Katherine has contributed to countless productions as a carpenter, electrician, light board operator, and assistant to the scenic designer. Her leadership extends beyond the stage as treasurer of Alpha Psi Omega and as a scene shop assistant for the department. Katherine's passion for theatre and commitment to excellence have been evident in everything she touches. This summer, she will begins her career with Shakespeare Theatre Company, and we are so excited to see where her professional journey takes her. Congratulations, Katherine!

Exciting things are happening at UMW Theatre! Our Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts program launches this Fall 2026, and we're thrilled to share this in-depth article about what's ahead!

The BFA will offer specialized concentrations in Acting, Musical Theatre, Design & Technology, and Stage Management—combining intensive studio instruction with hands-on production experience, all grounded in a liberal arts foundation.

This represents the next level of pre-professional training for our students, building on our recognition by The Princeton Review as a Top 25 college theatre program for three consecutive years.

Want to learn more? Read the full article to discover what makes this program special and how it will shape the next generation of theatre artists!

The future of UMW Theatre is bright!

UMW Theatre Steps Into the Spotlight With New BFA in Performing Arts by Students in the University of Mary Washington theatre program already bring plays and musicals to life each year — performing on stage, designing costumes and sets, managing productions and collaborating behind the scenes. The work has earned them national recognition. For three consecutive yea...

"Once more unto the breach!" ⚔️

Last day of classes is behind you—finals week is ahead. You've got the courage of Henry V's army, and we believe in you! 💙

To our graduating seniors: We'll miss you terribly, but we couldn't be prouder. Thank you for everything. Now go make history! 🎓✨

Good luck, everyone!

Happy World Book Day! 📚

We've been wondering—what's everyone reading lately?

Us? We're deep into our 2026-27 season lineup, naturally. Four incredible plays, endless dramatic moments, and yes, we're taking notes in the margins. 😉

What's on your nightstand (or e-reader, or audiobook queue)? Drop your current read in the comments! 👇

P.S. Want to experience these stories live? Season Passes are still available for just $125—grab yours at fredtix.com/seasonpass