This thesis documents the journey of Meghan Rose Shea struggling to find the character, Dr. Martha Livingstone, in the play Agnes of God. Meghan focused on the Meisner technique as a guideline for her acting approach. She explores past performances, the playwright, and thoroughly journals the trials and triumphs of the production process.

ABSTRACT Agnes of God is the story of a nun (Agnes) who gets pregnant while living in a convent. She almost dies after giving birth to a baby, who was later found dead in a garbage can. The cast consists of three members: Agnes; Mother Miriam Ruth (Mother Superior); and Dr. Martha Livingstone, the court appointed psychiatrist. Faith is tested as Dr. Livingstone draws closer to uncovering the truth surrounding the conception, birth, and death of Agnes’ baby. I performed the role of Mother Superior in the UNO production of Agnes of God. This thesis documents my rehearsal and performance journey. It includes a rehearsal journal and an evaluation of my performance. The play was performed in the Lab Theatre of the Performing Arts Center on November 5 and 6; November 14 and 15; and on November 19 and 20. Agnes of God is based on a true story. Keywords: Mother Superior, Agnes, Pielmeier, Sacrifice, Nun, Maureen Murphy