Since 1961, Walla Walla University’s drama program, wwudrama, has been the cornerstone of theatrical arts on campus and in the wider community. For more than six decades, the program has brought uplifting, creative, and meaningful theater to life. This fall, wwudrama launches its 2025–26 season with a diverse selection of stories that celebrate classic literature, student creativity, and socially resonant themes.
The season kicks off in the fall with the enchanting musical adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel “Emma.” With music and lyrics by acclaimed composer Paul Gordon, this show brings the delightful, and at times misguided, heroine Emma Woodhouse to the stage. This timeless story of love, missteps, and personal growth is set to charm audiences with performances on November 8, 9, 13, 15, and 16 in Village Hall. Jane Austen’s “Emma” is licensed through Music Theatre International.
The annual Festival of Shorts returns in the winter, blending student-directed published works with original one-act plays written by WWU students. This year's festival promises a night of laughter and witty narratives. Wwudrama encourages all students to submit their original comedy scripts for consideration to wwudrama@wallawalla.edu. Performances will take place on February 28 and March 1, 7, and 8 in Village Hall.
The season concludes in the spring with a powerful double bill of one-act dramas that explore human resilience in the face of environmental hardship. The first play, “Blossom Canyon Fire” by Don Zolidis, is a moving story about family, strength, and kindness in the midst of tragedy. This is followed by Mandy Conner's “Dirt,” which transports audiences to the 1930s Dust Bowl, a period of immense struggle in American history. Together, these plays offer an intimate look at finding purpose and hope amid overwhelming disaster. Performances will be held on the Donnie Rigby Stage on May 15, 17, 21, 29, and 31.
For more information about the season, including performance times and ticket details, visit wallawalla.edu/drama.
Posted September 4, 2025
