Drama Alumnus Chosen as Finalist in New York Theater Festival

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Adam Esquenazi Douglas

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Adam Esquenazi Douglas, a 2012 graduate with a master of fine arts in drama, has been named as a finalist in New York City’s Downtown Urban Theater Festival for the third year in a row. His play, Forever 27, is one of 29 chosen from 140 submissions.

“Having a recent master of fine arts graduate included in this esteemed list of finalists is a testament to the quality and dedication of both our students and faculty here at the University of Arkansas department of drama,” said Michael Riha, professor of drama and chair of the department. “Adam has been proudly representing himself and our department since he moved to New York City over a year ago and has already established himself as a vital and talented New York playwright.”

“With the Downtown Urban Theatre Festival, as with every success I've had as a playwright, I must give thanks to my time in Fayetteville,” said Douglas. “As a student in the University of Arkansas drama department under the tutelage of its impeccable faculty, and especially Dr. Roger Gross, I learned many things: dedication, bravery, resilience, malleability, and so very much more. But, most importantly, it had a leading role in making sure I was armed with the most valuable tool for any artist: having a purpose. Oh, and to never forget to love every second of it all.”

In addition to domestic submissions, the festival also has an international category, which included works from Canada, Egypt, Iran, Israel, United Kingdom, Rio de Janeiro and Romania. The finalists were chosen by a team of reviewer that included Reg E. Gaines, the festival’s artistic director and Tony-nominee for Best Musical and Best Book of a Musical for Bring in da Noise Bring in da Funk. After one-on-one interviews with the playwrights, the field of 29 finalists will be narrowed to 16 plays for the festival’s 12^th annual season, which will be held in spring 2014.

Downtown Urban Theater Festival was founded in 2001 to “build a repertoire of new American theatre that echoes the true spirit of urban life and speaks to a whole new generation whose lives defy categorizing along conventional lines.” Through the festival, more than 100 writers have created and refined their work for the stage.