Meredith Williams
Arts and Entertainment Editor
Ella Mitchell
Photo Editor
On September 5, 2024, a group of Sewanee students gathered in the lobby of the Tennessee Williams Center to draw names for this year’s New Plays in Two Days, a Sewanee tradition that puts student creativity first. First, playwrights choose directors, and then directors choose two or three actors. After groups are assigned, the playwright has just 24 hours to write a play and actors and directors have 24 hours to put it together. This year six plays were performed, meaning there were six playwrights and directors. A total of sixteen actors participated this year.
Director Roman Belton (C’ 26) said: “New Plays is such a fantastic way to start the year! I love meeting all the new theatre students, and this year I got involved! Great vibes all around.”
Each year a prompt is given for the playwrights. This year, the theme was “Blast From The Past,” and the prompts were given in the form of vintage objects. For example, an old phone, gumball machine, radio, atlas, and even an old TV set.
Playwrights, actors, and directors all collaborate to put together set pieces, costumes, props, sound and lighting. Each ten minute play turns into a full production due to the dedication of all involved and the support of the Theatre and Dance department.
Director and actor Ivy Francis Moore (C’ 26) said of his experience: “New Plays is one of my favorite traditions at Sewanee! I got to both act and direct this year and I loved all the support from the crowd and the evident hard work of the performers!”
One of the most exciting aspects of New Plays is the giant audience the event generates. This year, the room was packed with Sewanee students and community members. In addition to the Studio Theatre’s rows of chairs, there were an additional two or three rows of audience members seated on the floor during the performance. The audience energy is always something actors look for when performing. The closeness of the space and the high energy audience made the performances even more electric.
Audience member Mary Pomeroy (C’ 27) said of the event: “I really enjoyed all the plays! I think the sheer amount of talent from everyone involved is amazing. It’s just a really fun time.”
It’s safe to say that this year’s New Plays in Two Days was a success!