ISU Faculty Member Jef Petersen Brings Original Play to Life on Stage

Idaho State University’s Department of Theatre invites audiences to step into a world of imagination, adventure, and heart with “Emme and the Taking of the Woods,” opening April 17-18 and 23-25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Bistline Theatre at the Stephens Performing Arts Center.

Written and directed by ISU Theatre faculty member Jef Petersen, “Emme and the Taking of the Woods” is a new fantasy adventure that follows nine-year-old Emme on a multiverse-spanning journey filled with danger, discovery, and unexpected allies. At its core, the play explores themes of love, memory, and the power of imagination.

“This play is essentially a love letter to my family,” Petersen said. “I wanted to create a story that captures the immense, adventurous, and unending love we experience in our lives. While the story is personal, I hope audiences find something universal in Emme’s journey.”

Petersen, an award-winning playwright and director, brings a unique perspective to the production by guiding the work from page to stage. “Emme and the Taking of the Woods” was co-recipient of the 2023 KCACTF David Mark Cohen Playwriting Award, an honor that provided Petersen the opportunity to further develop his work at the prestigious Eugene O’Neill Theater Center.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to direct this piece at ISU,” Petersen said. “This is a technically challenging production, and it has been brought to life through the creativity, collaboration, and dedication of our students and faculty. It’s truly been an exciting artistic adventure.”

For student stage manager Hannah Jensen, working on a brand-new play has been both challenging and deeply meaningful. “The first read-through was incredibly powerful; we were all in tears by the end,” Jensen said. “This show connects with many of us on a very personal level, and that shared experience has made the rehearsal process especially rewarding.”

In addition to public performances, ISU will host two student matinees for learners from across Southeast Idaho. Participating schools will also have the opportunity to engage in accompanying playwriting workshops, offering students a deeper, hands-on connection to the creative process.

Petersen hopes the production resonates across generations. “I hope young audiences leave knowing that their imagination is one of their greatest strengths, and that they should never lose their ability to imagine, create, and play,” he said. “For adults, I hope the story serves as a reminder that our memories of loved ones are treasures we should always hold close.”

Opening night will be celebrated with a special Afterglow reception, where audience members are invited to meet the cast, crew, and artistic team, hear from Petersen, and enjoy complimentary refreshments.

Tickets range from $12-$18 and are available at the Stephens Performing Arts Center Box Office or online at isu.edu/tickets. ISU students receive one free ticket with a valid Bengal ID at the Box Office.