wwudrama
wwudrama is the theatre arts program on the Walla Walla University campus. We are dedicated to producing uplifting, creative, and meaningful theatre for the campus and community.
In 1961 Professor Donnie Rigby directed a stage play for the Walla Walla College Aleph Gimel Ain (AGA) club weekend. From this humble beginning, drama offerings expanded to a fully staged play being produced at least once a year. The rich tradition continues today, growing into two facilities and a full season, including two main stage productions, and an annual student-directed Festival of Shorts.
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Jane Austen's Emma
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Paul Gordon
Based on the novel by Jane Austen
Directed by Christine Janis
November 8, 13 and 15 at 7 p.m.
November 9 and 16 at 2 p.m.
Village Hall
wwudrama Kicks Off 65th Season with Enchanting Musical Adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma
Walla Walla University Drama is thrilled to announce the launch of its 65th season with the heartwarming musical, Jane Austen’s Emma. As the world celebrates Jane Austen’s 250th birthday throughout 2025, WWU is proud to be part of the festivities by bringing this enchanting adaptation to its stage. The production brings the beloved novel to life on the Village Hall stage, promising a season opener filled with charm, wit, and music.
With music and lyrics by acclaimed composer Paul Gordon (Daddy Long Legs, Jane Eyre), Emma follows the story of the delightful, yet often misguided, matchmaker Emma Woodhouse. This timeless tale of love, missteps, and personal growth is set to charm audiences with its memorable score and engaging story.
“We are delighted to open our 65th season celebrating a story that has resonated with readers for centuries, and we’re especially happy to be part of the worldwide celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday this year,” said Jerry Entze, registrar and the show's producer. “This musical adaptation captures the essence of Austen’s wit while offering a fresh, engaging theatrical experience.”
The production is directed by Christine Janis, Associate Professor of Music, with music direction by Kraig Scott, Professor of Music. The cast features the talents of more than a dozen current WWU students, with Lauren Ellis as Emma and Luke Palua as Mr. Knightley. Other cast members include Amanda Chureson, Job Costantino, Alyssa Kate Carinan, Emma Little, Timothy Kerbs, Christopher Kime, Ayla Carinan, Joosung Kim, Katherine Price, and Kole GreyEyes.
(Jane Austen’s Emma is licensed through Music Theatre International.)
Walla Walla University Campus Theatre Venues
Village Hall
One of the oldest buildings still standing on campus, Village Hall is an icon of Walla Walla University. The building, with its castle-like tower, was built in 1920 as the campus church. In 1939 the campus church moved to Columbia Auditorium and the building served as the College Place Village Church until 1962. It remained a sacred space until 1971, when it became the home for Walla Walla College drama. The building retains much of its original features: the beautiful stained glass windows remain, but the old church pews have been replaced with much more comfortable theatre-style seats. The organ is long gone. A large screen and projector have been added enabling additional uses for the venue. With its imposing exterior and charming interior, Village Hall is a truly beautiful space for theatre.
Directions: Village Hall is located on the Walla Walla University Campus (204 S College Ave, College Place, WA 99324.) It is on College Ave directly across from the administration building.
The Donnie Rigby Stage
Named for Donnie Rigby—who founded and spent 31 years leading Walla Walla College Drama—the Donnie Rigby Stage is wwudrama’s state of the art theatre space. The Stage’s key characteristic is its flexibility. Seating changes for each show, allowing for anything from multiple stages to theatre in the round. A lighting grid covers the entire room, allowing any part of the theatre to be lit. This theatre has no "front" so the stage is also very intimate, with seating for only about 100 people, which allows for state of the art equipment, incredible flexibility, and a sense of closeness to the action.
Directions: The Donnie Rigby Stage is on the west end of the Walla Walla University Campus in the Canaday Technology Center. The parking lot is on the corner of SW 4th St. and SW Davis Ave. The Entrance is located to the left of Positive Life Radio.
Walla Walla University Drama
204 S College Ave
College Place, WA 99324
wwudrama Box Office
(509) 527-2832
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