Exterior of Hutchinson Hall at University of Washington

Alumni News

We'd love to hear what our former students are doing! Fill out the alumni update form to share your news. If you'd like to stay connected with our department, consider liking our Facebook and Instagram pages, subscribing to our Newsletter, and joining our  Mailing List.

Recent Alumni News

Photo Valerie Curtis-Newton

In the Press: Valerie Curtis-Newton Featured in American Theatre Magazine’s Roundtable Discussion on Theatre Education

Valerie Curtis-Newton, professor and head of directing and playwriting at the University of Washington’s School of Drama, was recently featured in American Theatre Magazine's roundtable discussion titled "Teaching the Moment." This conversation examined the influence of political forces and the changing lands
New Works Poster

New Works Northwest Festival Highlights UW Drama Artists

Union Arts Center’s New Works Northwest Festival returns January 22–25, 2026, offering staged readings, community events, and artist conversations that center the development of new plays by Pacific Northwest writers. Now in its third year, the festival invites audiences into a vital step of the creative process, supporting stories as they move from script to stage.
Headshot Kyra Miller Himmelbaum

PATP alum Kyra Miller Himmelbaum explores experimental film and performance

Interdisciplinary artist Kyra Miller Himmelbaum (MFA, Acting, PATP ’03) continues to create work that moves across performance, film, and visual storytelling. Her recent project, Bluebeard Gaslight, blends puppetry, horror, experimental film, and handmade design into a striking, genre-defying experience. 
Ariel Estrada, MFA, Acting, Professional Actor Training Program, University of Washington. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Ariel Estrada Recognized for Powerful Performance in Full Contact

PATP alum Ariel Estrada receives critical recognition for contemporary performance. Actor Ariel Estrada, a graduate of UW Drama’s Professional Actor Training Program (PATP), is earning strong reviews for their performance in Full Contact, with critics noting the work’s physical intensity, emotional clarity, and ensemble-driven approach.
Jose Rufino, MFA, Acting, Professional Actor Training Program, University of Washington. Production photo courtesy of Theatre Bloom.

Jose Rufino Earns Critical Praise for Recent Stage Work

PATP alum Jose Rufino earns praise for emotionally resonant stage work.
Timothy Johnson seated holding a copy of his acting book

PATP alum Timothy Johnson publishes new acting book and continues directing work Off-Broadway.

Actor, director, educator, and author Timothy Johnson is celebrating the publication of his first acting book while continuing active collaborations in the professional theatre field.
Portrait of actor and musician Lenne Klingaman

Lenne Klingaman Shines on Stage, Screen, and in Song

PATP alum Lenne Klingaman continues to build a dynamic career across stage and music.
ArtSci Roundup: November

ArtSci Roundup: December

Come curious. Leave inspired. For those near and far, we invite you to end the year with us through a range of events, performances, exhibitions, podcasts, and more. As you begin to shape your December plans, dont miss the inspiring events still to come this November. In addition,sign up to receive a monthly notice when...
Jean Smart photo

In the Press: Jean Smart (BFA,’74) Receives Another Emmy Nomination

We’re proud to celebrate Jean Smart (BFA,’74), alumna of the UW School of Drama’s Professional Actor Training Program, on her latest Primetime Emmy nomination for her role in HBO