Year of Graduation
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
MFA: Playwriting
Directing Professor
Neil David Seibel
Abstract
Dear Vincent is a play written for J. Harvey Stone’s MFA in Playwriting from Hollins University. The play is inspired by the life of Vincent van Gogh and his letters with his brother Theodore. The artist Vincent van Gogh was an avid writer to his brother Theodore. This play is inspired by, but not dictated by, the letters Vincent van Gogh wrote to his brother. Connected by hymns in Act I and by the news of the 1980s in Act II, this Vincent lives through his letters as well but ultimately has to make a decision regarding this life in letters.
The writer brings his Vincent forward in time and moves him to Appalachia. The play is set in the early 1980s and Vincent is struggling. Vincent doesn't know what he wants, except love. He tries preaching and missionary work. Vincent writes letters to his brother Teddy. Writing letters to Teddy seems to be the constant in Vincent's life, well that and the voice of his father, who he calls "Papa." Can Vincent define love in a way that he can live with? Can Vincent create himself through his hurt and healing? Or does he create in spite of it?
Recommended Citation
Stone, James H. IV, "Dear Vincent" (2026). Playwriting (MFA) Theses, Hollins University. 18.
https://digitalcommons.hollins.edu/playwritingtheses/18
Contact Information
jharveystone@gmail.com
Purpose Statement
The purpose of the MFA in Playwriting thesis is to provide a definitive record of student progress upon completion of the degree. This text will not reflect any revisions to the play made after degree completion. For the most current version of the play, or for licensing information, please contact the author and/or the Hollins Playwriting Department.
Included in
Appalachian Studies Commons, Fiction Commons, Other History of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology Commons, Painting Commons, Playwriting Commons