Media Contact:
Courtney D. Clark
cclark75@uw.edu
206-221-6797
Press image(s): [Download]
University of Washington School of Drama Presents Sarah Ruhl’s Late, A Cowboy Song
A Poetic Journey of Love, Identity, and Breaking Free from Convention
SEATTLE, WA – The University of Washington School of Drama invites audiences to experience Late, A Cowboy Song, a bold and unconventional play by Pulitzer Prize finalist Sarah Ruhl, directed by Nick O’Leary (UW Drama MFA, ‘25).
Running March 11–15, 2025, at the intimate Glenn Hughes Penthouse Theatre, this production explores gender identity, queer love, and the courage to defy expectations—all told through Ruhl’s signature poetic storytelling.
LATE, A COWBOY SONG
By Sarah Ruhl
Directed by Nick O’Leary
When: March 11–15, 2025
Where: Glenn Hughes Penthouse Theatre, 1803 NE 45th Street, Seattle, WA
Tickets: $10–$22 | Buy Tickets
A STORY OF LOVE, COWBOYS, AND ESCAPING CONVENTION
Set in Pittsburgh, Late, A Cowboy Song follows Mary, Crick, and Red—three people grappling with love, identity, and the courage to break free. Mary is trapped in an unfulfilling relationship with Crick, who clings to outdated ideals of love and masculinity. Then there’s Red—a cowboy, a free spirit, and a woman—who offers Mary a glimpse of another way to live.
“We’re all taught that love looks a certain way,” says director Nick O’Leary. “This play challenges that. It asks: What would it mean to follow our own rhythms, not the ones society imposes?”
At its core, Late, A Cowboy Song is about bravery.
“This play is about people stuck in boxes,” O’Leary explains. “Red is brave enough to live on her own terms, when most of us can’t imagine following our hearts feels impossible when society tells us not to.”
DIRECTOR’S VISION: AN IMMERSIVE, MUSIC-INFUSED EXPERIENCE
O’Leary’s direction invites audiences into an intimate, deeply personal world where they must confront their own assumptions.
“I want audiences to see themselves in these characters—their fears, their dreams—and leave inspired to be their true selves.”
Live music plays a crucial role, with Red performing eight original cowboy songs (Composer & Music Support: Kyle Levein), serving as a soundtrack to Mary’s journey.
“Music in this play is like the sound of freedom calling,” says O’Leary. “Red’s songs are simple, true, and full of yearning. They conjure the freedom of wide open spaces and the intimacy of a campfire sing along.”
CAST & CREATIVE TEAM
Cast:
- Crick – Chancellor Kelly*
- Mary – Samantha Grossman*
- Red – Mya Hariri*
Creative Team:
- Director: Nick O’Leary*
- Composer & Music Support: Kyle Levein
- Scenic Designer: Jordan Cohen*
- Costume Designer: Duma Du*
- Lighting Designer: Alyssa Bonheyo*
- Sound Designer: Finley Brown*
- Stage Manager: Daisy Schreiber**
(˚ Undergraduate student | ** Graduate student | ** UW Drama alum)
PRODUCTION DETAILS
Glenn Hughes Penthouse Theatre | 1803 NE 45th Street, Seattle, WA
Performance Schedule:
- Preview Performance: March 7, 7:30 PM
- Tuesday, March 11 – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday, March 12 – 7:30 PM
- Thursday, March 13 – 7:30 PM
- Friday, March 14 – 7:30 PM
- Saturday, March 15 – 2:00 PM
Run Time: Approx. 2 hours, 10 minutes. Inclusive of a 10-minute intermission.
Production Warnings:
TICKETS: $10–$22 | Buy Tickets
Ticketing inquiries: ticket@uw.edu
EXPERIENCE A THEATRICAL JOURNEY THAT CHALLENGES CONVENTION
With live music, poetic dialogue, and an unforgettable story of self-discovery, Late, A Cowboy Song is a must-see for those who love thought-provoking theater.
For interviews, press tickets, or more information, contact:
Courtney D. Clark | cclark75@uw.edu | 206-221-6797
About the UW School of Drama
The University of Washington School of Drama develops innovative and courageous artists and scholars poised to be the creative leaders of tomorrow. Degrees offered include a BA, an MFA, and a Ph.D. The School of Drama’s public season features fully produced shows and Lab projects in three different venues on the Seattle campus. These productions provide students with opportunities for practice, experimentation, and exploration — often alongside prominent professional artists. We believe in the power of theatrical storytelling to elevate individual and collective voices, promote understanding, and nurture compassion.