From the stage to behind the scenes, UW Drama artists and educators were honored for their creative excellence and impact on regional theatre.
SEATTLE, WA — November 2025
The University of Washington School of Drama proudly celebrates the achievements of our alumni, faculty, staff, and students recognized at this year’s Gregory Awards, presented by Theatre Puget Sound.
Established in 1998, the Gregory Awards honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the Puget Sound theatre community. Named for Gregory A. Falls—beloved UW chair and founder of ACT Theatre—the awards have grown to include multiple categories recognizing artistic excellence in performance, design, direction, and production.
UW Drama Award Recipients
The 2025 ceremony once again highlighted the remarkable talent and leadership of UW Drama artists whose work continues to shape the regional performing arts landscape.
Outstanding Projection Design
Nick O’Leary, MFA Directing 2025 — House of Joy, Seattle Public Theater & Pratidhwani
Outstanding Sound Design
Rob Witmer, former instructor — House of Joy, Seattle Public Theater & Pratidhwani
Outstanding Performance – Play
Amy Thone, Instructor — Twelfth Night, ACT Contemporary Theatre & Seattle Shakespeare Company
Melissa Hines Award for Outstanding Performing Arts Practitioner
K.D. Schill, Wardrobe and Costume Stock Coordinator — recognized for her exceptional artistry and behind-the-scenes service supporting countless productions at UW and throughout the Seattle theatre community.
The Melissa Hines Award honors theatre practitioners whose vital work often occurs outside the spotlight—stage managers, technicians, administrators, and artisans whose dedication sustains the creative process. The award memorializes Melissa Hines, former managing director of The Empty Space Theatre, whose leadership and vision strengthened Seattle’s performing arts ecosystem.
About the Gregory Awards
Each year, the Gregory Awards celebrate artistic excellence and community impact across the Puget Sound theatre scene. Through a year-long process of evaluation, nominators attend productions and submit recommendations, culminating in a vote by Theatre Puget Sound members.
The School of Drama is honored to see so many of our community members recognized among this year’s recipients. Their accomplishments reflect the School’s long-standing commitment to developing innovative, courageous artists and scholars who engage deeply with both art and community.
Congratulations to all of our UW Drama awardees for their outstanding contributions to the arts!
Event photography by Quinlan Corbett, courtesy of Theatre Puget Sound.
Learn more about the Gregory Awards at the following link: