Setting the Stage

PlayMakers has grown out of a storied Carolina history. In 1918, professor Frederick Koch founded the Carolina Playmakers, a troupe of writers and actors comprised of students, faculty and community members who gained national recognition for creating an original dramatic form called the folk play.

One hundred years and 296 productions later, PlayMakers Repertory Company sustains this legacy while continually expanding theatrical life at Carolina. With a nod toward its past, in April 2018, PlayMakers debuted its first fully commissioned work. Leaving Eden, a play that is part folk musical and part oral history fable, follows the tradition of the folk play Carolina artists originated a century ago.

Written by Carolina alumnus Mike Wiley ’04 (M.F.A.), with music by Laurelyn Dossett, who has called North Carolina home for 30 years, and direction by PlayMakers producing artistic director Vivienne Benesch, the Leaving Eden production was truly homegrown. The Department of Dramatic Art supported the full production of this world premiere with actors, designers, technicians, stage managers and crew.

While a return to the University’s roots, Leaving Eden also plants the seed for the next 100 years of playmaking at Carolina, setting the stage for future commissions that reflect the highest level of excellence in the field and represent our Carolina and N.C. communities.

Photo Credit: HuthPhoto

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