For the first time in the history of the University of Puerto Rico's (UPR) Repertory Theater, a play written by a UPR alumnus will be performed. 'Vientres de tierra', written by Yarel Padilla, will be staged from September 9 to 13, 2026, at the UPR Theater in Río Piedras, with the support of the National Latinx Theatre Initiative. The production will bring together professors, professional actors, students, and alumni, including Jacqueline Duprey, Mariana Quiles, Alanis Manzano, Yohjan Batista, Emilio García Canetti, and Jorge Alexander.
Duprey, a protagonist and UPR professor, described the experience as 'a beautiful and extraordinary project' that provides a professional platform for students to integrate their training. For Padilla, seeing his play performed is 'a true honor' and 'another step within the university community', after graduating with a bachelor's degree in drama two years ago.
The play was written in early 2025 while Padilla was in Chile.