P.A. Wray (Patti)  studied dramatic writing at Old Dominion University in 2001, and continues to learn the craft through workshops, self-study and participation in Virginia Playwrights Forum (VPF), a group she helped form in 2000. In 2007, Wray and her investment partner opened a storefront performing arts space in Norfolk to help foster the fledging writers group. This space, known as The Venue on 35th, in addition to being the home of the Forum, became popular with a variety of artists. In 2016 Wray stepped down from being the executive producer at The Venue to focus on her writing. She also, through VPF, is currently working with Wayne Theatre to bring dramatic works for the stage to the Wayne, with emphasis on new works by Virginia playwrights.

Writing Credits in Theater:

Over the years Wray’s plays have been featured in local new play festivals as productions and staged readings. Nat’s Last Struggle: a one act, one man solo piece received critical acclaim during Norfolk Summer Play Fest 2011 and was presented at The Earl Hamner, Jr. Theatre, Afton, Va. and Gateway Theater, Waynesboro, Va. in Oct. 2011. It was produced in July 2015 and presented at Generic Theater, Norfolk, Va. This piece is currently available for production through Blue Moon Plays.
Nat Turner’s Last Struggle: Finding His Way Home: a one act, two character play, is a re-imagined version of Nat’s Last Struggle. It was selected for a Summer Reading Series by Heritage Ensemble Theatre Company and was presented in a fully-staged reading at Virginia Union University in Richmond, Va. July 2016. The piece was produced at The Venue on 35th March 2017 where it received rave reviews from audiences and literary professionals. A different production was part of Virginia Theater Association Fringe Festival in October 2017. A new production will go up at Wayne Theatre in February 2019 as part of their 2018/2019 Fall and Winter Season. This piece is available for production through Blue Moon Plays.