Recent News

Faculty member Lisa B. Thompson's latest play, African Stew, was selected by KQED as one of the 10 best plays and musicals to watch this Fall in the Bay Area. The play will have its world premiere at the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre from September 10-27, 2026.

Following her acclaimed previous works The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body and Single Black Female, faculty member Lisa B. Thompson's new play African Stew is a satirical comedy that explores cultural differences, class and love in the Black Diaspora. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre will present the play's world premiere on September 10-27, 2026 in the Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture.

Originally performed during The Cohen New Works Festival (2025) and developed through the GFT Writes program, Emiliana: A Revolution Cabaret premieres at Ground Floor Theatre in August 2026. Written by and featuring Jessica L. Peña Torres (Ph.D. Candidate), this play is directed by Mateo Hernandez (M.F.A. 2025) and features more alumni, faculty and current students.

The summer gives Theatre and Dance students and faculty a chance to explore opportunities, learn new skills and broaden their network of fellow artists and educators. Check out our 2026 summer updates blog for just a few examples of their wonderful work.

Charlotte M. Canning has written “We the (Theatre) People,” an article for American Theatre that looks at the history of theatre across America and how it reflects American identity.  

Alum Katie Bender (M.F.A. 2014) was selected for Cycle 4 of Rattlestick Theater's Terrence McNally New Works Incubator. The program bolsters the work of three emerging playwrights through critical financial support, personalized mentorship, and a three-week incubation period, followed by a one-week developmental workshop culminating in a presentation of their work. 

Lincoln Center Theater will feature work by two alumni as part of their 2026/2027 season: Born in the Dirt by Kimberly Belflower (M.F.A. 2017) and Pretend it's Pretend by Emma Watkins (M.F.A. 2024). Watkins' Pretend it's Pretend was performed as part of UTNT (UT New Theatre) 2024.