The FAMU Essential Theatre has announced its 2025–2026 season, featuring a range of productions that include award-winning plays, original dramas, student-led performances, and community traditions. The upcoming season will showcase Pulitzer Prize-winning works, comedies, historical dramas, and musical revues.
Faculty members Associate Director and Professor Luther D. Wells, Professor Ruben Arana, and Professor Evelyn D. Harris will direct several of the productions. Students will also have opportunities to lead projects throughout the season. The annual Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre will be directed by James Webb.
The season begins with “Fat Ham,” running from October 22 to 26, 2025. Directed by Luther D. Wells, this play won the 2022 Pulitzer Prize and reimagines Shakespeare’s Hamlet through the perspective of Juicy, a queer Black man dealing with identity and family dynamics.
“Sibling Rivalry,” directed by Ruben Arana from November 5 to 9, is a new comedy centered on family relationships during a funeral.
“Ode to Mariah,” scheduled for February 5 to 8, 2026 and directed by Evelyn D. Harris, tells the story of a young woman in 1898 who strives for education amid societal challenges.
From February 25 to March 1, students will present “Echoes of the Heart: A Musical Revue,” an original work exploring themes of love through music and performance.
Student showcases titled “Talent Unleashed” are set for April 2, 15 & 16 in which seniors present capstone projects and scenes they have directed themselves.
The Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre marks its final year with performances on July 10–11 under James Webb’s direction. This event celebrates its thirtieth anniversary and honors Dr. Valencia E. Matthews’ legacy in youth theatre programming.
“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.”
