Theatre Director

My directing ethos is rooted in the exploration of caste, gender identity, and sexual identity.

I’m fascinated by how we embrace, reject, and construct our various identities—and how these choices shape our connections with ourselves and others.

Amaya Sonubi in FABULATION OR, THE RE-EDUCATION OF UNDINE by Lynn Nottage at UB Dept of Theatre & Dance (Photo: Ken Smith)

Within this expansive exploration, I’m often drawn to narratives that center the experiences of Black women from across the African Diaspora. These stories, while deeply personal to me, also resonate universally with a variety of audiences. 

Cast of CROWNS by Regina Taylor at MusicalFare Theatre (Photo: Doug Weyand)

Visual art has always been a source of inspiration to me.

Kara Walker’s fearless interrogation of racism and sexism fuels my commitment to using theatre to cultivate empathy and understanding.

Kehinde Wiley’s compelling juxtaposition of subject and surroundings informs the composition and visual language of my work.

The raw emotional power of Caravaggio shapes my approach to staging and tableau.

Jesse Bhamrah in DISGRACED by Ayad Akhtar at Next Stop Theatre (Photo: Lock & Company)

I am drawn to playwrights who craft stories of intersectional characters navigating an unforgiving and hostile society with resilience and creativity.

Stori Ayers and Justus Hammond in YELLOWMAN by Dael Orlandersmith at Anacostia Playhouse

My rehearsal process heavily emphasizes table work, where I lead actors through a process of observation, discovery, and synthesis with regards to analyzing the text and developing their characters.

Jake Hayes and Brendan Didio in KING JAMES by Rajiv Joseph at D'Youville Kavinoky Theatre (Photo: Olivia D’Amato)

I collaborate with designers through their unique languages to create a harmonious, visually stunning world that synergizes the playwright’s intentions with my own directorial vision. 

Cast of BR'ER COTTON by Tearrance Arvelle Chisholm at CU Drama

I direct plays, musicals, staged readings, and workshops. Click the button below to collaborate with me on a project!

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