September 22, 2025

Administration

By Rachel James-Terry

Ode to Mariah (February 5–8, 2026)

FAMU Essential Theatre Announces 2025–2026 Season of Bold Productions and Celebrated Voices

The FAMU Essential Theatre proudly unveils its 2025–2026 season, a dynamic lineup blending award-winning works, new original dramas, student-led creativity, and community traditions. With Pulitzer Prize-winning plays, heartfelt comedies, powerful historical dramas, and original musical revues, this year's productions promise to engage, inspire, and celebrate the transformative power of theatre.

What makes this season especially meaningful is the collaboration between faculty directors and the talented students of FAMU Essential Theatre. Productions will be led by Associate Director and Professor Luther D. Wells, Professor Ruben Arana, and Professor Evelyn D. Harris, alongside student-driven projects and the annual Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre, directed by award-winning playwright James Webb. This season offers audiences the chance to experience theatre that entertains and highlights the artistry cultivated within the FAMU Essential Theatre program.

2025–2026 Season Lineup

Fat Ham Production Flyer

Fat Ham (October 22–26, 2025)

Directed by Associate Director Luther D. Wells

Winner of the 2022 Pulitzer Prize, this hilarious reimagining of Shakespeare's Hamlet follows Juicy, a queer Black man in his twenties, as he navigates questions of identity, grief, and joy amidst a backyard family celebration.

Sibling Rivalary Theatre Flyer

Sibling Rivalry (November 5–9, 2025)

Directed by Ruben Arana

This uproarious new comedy brings together family, a funeral, and hard truths—reminding us that even in life's most difficult moments, laughter is never far away.

Ode to Mariah Theatre Flyer

Ode to Mariah (February 5–8, 2026)

Directed by Evelyn D. Harris

Set in 1898, this inspiring drama follows 17-year-old Mariah as she fights to pursue her education against the forces of prejudice, gender expectations, and societal limitations.

Echoes of the Heart Theatre Flyer

Echoes of the Heart: A Musical Revue (February 25 – March 1, 2026)

A student-written, directed, and performed original revue that blends music, acting, and dance to explore the many facets of love—from first romance to heartbreak and healing.

Ice Camp Theatre Flyer

Talent Unleashed: Student Showcases (April 2, 15 & 16, 2026)

FAMU Essential Theatre students take the stage in a celebration of artistry and growth, presenting senior capstone projects and directing scenes that showcase their creative journeys.

Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre (July 10–11, 2026)

Directed by James Webb

The beloved Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre celebrates its 30th Anniversary and final year. Featuring young performers ages 7–16, this joyful grand finale honors the legacy of Dr. Valencia E. Matthews and three decades of inspiring youth through theatre.

The FAMU Essential Theatre's 2025–2026 season celebrates creativity, community, and collaboration. By uniting the vision of faculty directors, the innovation of students, and the legacy of youth programming, the Essential Theatre continues its mission to inspire audiences on campus and beyond.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Willis Fedd
Essential Theatre Marketing Director
willis.fedd@famu.edu

Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
Rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu

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