University of Idaho Theatre Arts Presents Student-Written Plays

First Bite series features two original works by MFA students

Mar. 18, 2026 at 4:11am

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The University of Idaho Department of Theatre Arts will present two original student-written plays as part of its First Bite New Play Series, with free virtual readings scheduled over two weekends. 'The Mire' by Trace Davis and 'Head of the Family' by Laura Byron Wade offer audiences a look at scripts in early development, directed by the student playwrights.

Why it matters

The First Bite series provides an opportunity for MFA students to showcase their original works and receive feedback, while also giving the public a chance to engage with new theatrical productions. This supports the university's mission to foster creativity and provide a platform for emerging artists.

The details

The readings for 'The Mire' will be held at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 29. 'Head of the Family' will follow at 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 5. After the series, 'The Mire' is scheduled for a staged reading in May at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre in Indianapolis through a partnership with the university.

  • The readings for 'The Mire' will be held on March 28 and March 29, 2026.
  • The readings for 'Head of the Family' will be held on April 4 and April 5, 2026.
  • A staged reading of 'The Mire' is scheduled for May 2026 at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre in Indianapolis.

The players

Trace Davis

The writer of 'The Mire', which explores tension in a marriage complicated by an ex-spouse.

Laura Byron Wade

The writer of 'Head of the Family', a dark comedy that follows siblings uncovering secrets tied to their late father.

Kellie Stonebrook

A University of Idaho alumna who is producing the First Bite series.

Andrew Okerson

An MFA student serving as the technical coordinator for the First Bite series.

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What’s next

After the First Bite series, 'The Mire' is scheduled for a staged reading in May at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre in Indianapolis through a partnership with the University of Idaho.

The takeaway

The First Bite New Play Series provides a valuable platform for MFA students at the University of Idaho to showcase their original theatrical works and receive feedback, while also offering the public a chance to engage with emerging artists and new productions.