Miller Arts Scholars Take the Stage in UVA Drama’s 2026 New Works
🎠We are so proud of the many Miller Arts Scholars contributing as playwrights, directors, and performers in this year’s New Works presented by UVA Drama.
Congratulations to Anika Kashyap, playwright and director of (S)expectations; Julia Shuttleworth (MAS, 3rd Year), playwright of Karate Kody Grows Up; Kate Hovey (MAS, 3rd Year), director of Rumspringa; Jack Ireland (MAS Co-President, 4th year), performer in Karate Kody Grows Up. Each of these artists exemplifies the creativity, rigor, and collaborative spirit that define the Miller Arts Scholars community. Their bold storytelling are central to the energy and vision of this year’s production.
Be sure to attend NEW WORKS to celebrate their work and the powerful voices they bring to the stage. New Works tickets is Arts$ eligible. Reserve your FREE TICKETS at least 24 hours in advance!)
UVA Drama Presents: 2026 New Works—an evening of short student works bringing fresh stories to the stage, including a brand-new musical. This year’s program features five short plays and one original short musical:
Five Last Moments
Written and directed by Braden Williams
Trapped in an endless cycle of his own creation, Lucas desperately uses a mysterious watch to reset the tragic passing of the love of his life, Christa. However, the two face many new and unnatural obstacles with each reset. Can Lucas and Christa change Christa's fate? Or is fate a beast that can't be matched?
Karate Kody Grows Up
Written by Julia Shuttleworth | Directed by Dave Dalton
Devin has been the star of the hit children’s TV show “Karate Kody: Preteen Powerhouse” since he was 12 years old — and now he’s 27. When Janet, the showrunner, is presented with a new opportunity, and a new face kicks down the dojo door, Devin is confronted with the fleeting nature of his own youth…will the landslide bring him down?
Rumspringa
Written by Claudia Hunn | Directed by Kate Hovey
Outside a movie theater showing the raciest rom-com of the year, Esther gets her first taste of the world beyond the Amish community from curious teens Marissa, Katie, and Claire. Over popcorn, cuss words, butterfly clips, and bonnets, the girls share their stories for one unforgettable encounter.
(S)expectations
Written and directed by Anika Kashyap
When a late-night meetup brings an unexpected guest, Rhea and Sam are forced to navigate gendered expectations of sex and sexuality on their college campus. Through an awkward but revealing encounter, the piece examines how young adults negotiate desire, agency, and self-worth.
So Much Drama
Written and directed by Maggie Polistina
Jane is in the audience of a terrible play, on the worst (and probably longest) date of her life. When she runs into her ex in the crowd, there’s no way for her to escape. Everywhere she turns, she’s surrounded by So Much Drama.
To Whoever it May Concern
Written by Daniel Kilmartin | Directed by Brianna Whitaker
In his free time, Ted writes inspirational letters and hides them in people's bags. On the verge of losing his motivation, his passion is reignited after meeting a recipient of one of his letters, Erin. This piece includes an accompanying piano and vocal duettists.
PERFORMANCE INFO
đź“… February 19, 20 & 21 at 8PM in the Helms Theatre
Free Arts$ tickets for UVA students - reserve yours at least 24 hours in advance through the link below!
Reserve tickets at artsboxoffice.virginia.edu
