The University Prize Plays Workshop

Faculty Advisor, Producer, Dramaturg: Nina Morrison
Production Assistant: Noa Hellquist '26

The John C. Edwards University Prize Plays Workshop (UPPW) is a 2-week new play development opportunity awarded to original students works directed and performed by students in a night of public staged readings. This competition, which was originally established in the 1970s and lasted until the mid-1990s, was revived and dedicated by actor, writer, director, and producer Mike O'Malley, '88 ("Snowpiercer", "Yes, Dear", and "Glee"), in honor of Professor John C. Edwards. 

The Most Comfortable Mattress in Existence

Written by Braedon Meattey, '25
Directed by Shea Flanagan,' 25

Daniel Henderson discovers that his new mattress has granted him the ability to travel through time while he sleeps. He unwillingly journeys far into both the past and future, navigating the absurdities of time travel while confronting the immutable nature of fate. 

Evelyn: Keira Fitch '28
Timmy: Erin Gagnon '27
Teacher: Liah Dominguez '26
Susan: Zoe Eldredge '27
Daniel: Micheal Paragios '27
Oliver: Scott Black '28
Reader: Sabrina Martin '26
Phone Voice: Katie Shine '27

Linger

Written by Anna Schwarz '24
Directed by Erik Hilyard '25
Faced with a reminder of her past, Faye reveals a realist's reflection on her own coming of age story. "Linger" is a nostalgic look at summer camp, old friends (or new ones), and the virtues of change. 

Faye: Keira Finch '28
Old Faye: Erin Gagnon '27
Dione: Liah Dominguez '26
Old Nick: Zoe Eldredge '27
Noah: Micheal Paragios '27
David: Scott Black '28
Nick: Sabrina Martin '26
Reader: Katie Shine '27

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