TA(L)KING DIRECTION

Recorded on Wednesday, May 3, 2022 In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan speak with four time Tony Award winning director Jerry Zaks about his first loves, his current productions, and his legendary career.    Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan speak with Daniel Banks, one of the country's most innovative and imaginative arts leaders and directors. They discuss Daniel's work with DNAWORKS, being at the forefront of important conversations around equity, social justice, and community engagement; and the important conversations the field needs to have moving forward. Trigger Warning: this episode contains references to racial violence. Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Tuesday, March 22, 2022   In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan speak with Timothy Douglas, recipient of the Lloyd Richards Director Award, who has over 120 productions from some of the most prominent theater companies to his credit. They talk about Timothy's impressive and inspiring career as a director and educator, his thoughts on American theater today and the changes he has seen as a Black director in mostly White institutions, and the areas where he thinks work still needs to be done.    Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Tuesday March 22, 2022 In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Associate Artistic Director Nilan speaks with Tony-nominated director and playwright, Robert O'Hara, who has been essential in bringing new perspectives and stories about Black bodies and queer lives to the stage. They talk about working outside of the box, what it's like to be both writer and director of a show, working in the classical canon as Black director, and what the actual labor of creating a production is like. Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan speak with Tony Award-winning director, Rebecca Taichman. Known as a director who is committed to the development of the projects she works on, they discuss her role as director and co-creator of Indecent, her dedication and determination to bringing Sing Street to Broadway, as well as her thoughts on gender parity in the theater, considering she has an exclusive role as one of only 10 women directors to have received a Tony Award for direction. Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan speak with Snehal Desai, Producing Artistic Director of East West Players. Located in L.A., East West Players, now entering its 56th Season, is one of the longest continuously-operating theaters of color in the United States. A former Drama League Fellow, Snehal discusses what it's like to be a leader of such an institution in our current times and his vision for the company and its future.  Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Friday, December 10, 2021 In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan are joined by the incomparable Liz Diamond. Liz is the Chair of Directing at David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University, and Resident Director at Yale Repertory Theatre. She has worked around the world as a director and teacher, influencing and inspiring generations of directors. They discuss her incredible career, the art of directing, and new demands directors are facing to counter inequities in the field. Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Thursday, November 18, 2021 The shutdown of theater due to the pandemic changed the industry and the job of every arts administrator within it forever. Changes in effort, execution, curation and sustainability are now very present questions that are being addressed every day at every institution. Today's podcast pulls back the curtains on that work to reveal some light on the work that often goes unnoticed. In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Associate Artistic Director Nilan is joined by the Bold Associate Artistic Director of WP Theater, director, and choreographer, Rebecca Martinez. They discuss the changes that are happening, rebuilding trust within the artistic community, and shifts that are happening. Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on Wednesday October 27, 2021   The return of Broadway has come with some change and opportunity. Black storytellers are finally getting the opportunity to share their stories, providing audiences the opportunity to see the complexities of Black thoughts, life, and performance through a myriad of narratives. In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Associate Artistic Director Nilan sits down with director Steve H. Broadnax III, who made his Broadway directorial debut with Thoughts of a Colored Man by Keenan Scott II. They discuss what it's been like to be a first-time director on Broadway, what it's like to bring world premiere productions to life, and how Steve's role in education informs what he does on stage.     Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia  

Recorded on Wednesday, October 13, 2021 The recent Tony Award broadcast signaled to the world that Broadway is back and was an important element in the journey of re-establishing the theatre industry. In this episode, The Drama League's Associate Artistic Director Nilan talks with Heather A. Hitchens, the President and CEO and Emilio Sosa, the recently named chair of the American Theatre Wing. They discuss lessons learned during the shutdown, the Wing's Counting Together project, the difficulty the industry is having facing its failures, and more.  Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia  

Recorded on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 As theatres are reopening and shows are beginning across stages on and Off-Broadway, we take a closer look at whose stories are being told and how. In this episode, The Drama League's Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan talk with John Doyle, Artistic Director of Classic Stage Company. They discuss how "classics" have traditionally been defined in the theater, what it's like to revisit classic work today, the importance of embracing change in how we understand and identify classic theatrical work, and what's next for John after he steps down from CSC at the end of this season. Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Artists and audiences are coming back together again as live performances, including the reopening of Broadway, are returning. In this episode, The Drama League's Associate Artistic Director Nilan, speaks to Zhailon Levingston, who is making history as the youngest Black director with his debut on Broadway directing Douglas Lyons' Chicken and Biscuits. Nilan and Zhailon speak about the return of theatre, what it means for artists that seven Black productions are leading the reemergence of Broadway, and how directing and advocacy intersect.   Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

Recorded on May 18, 2021 DirectorFest 2021 is right around the corner, and to celebrate we're highlighting the directors that are bringing the virtual festival to life. The Drama League's New York Directing Fellowship lives at the heart of the organization's mission by providing industry-focused development and creative skill-building for emerging directors, with the annual director-focused festival serving as a culmination to the program. In this week's episode, The Drama League's Associate Artistic Director Nilan joins two of the current New York Fellows, Cristina Angeles (Unfuckwithable) and Taylor Haven Holt (A Girl's Bedroom), in discussion about their journey as directors up to now and the road ahead for the American theater. To learn more and RSVP to DirectorFest, visit directorfest.org.  For more information about Cristina Angeles visit: http://www.cristinaangeles.com/ For more information about Taylor Haven Holt visit: http://www.taylorhavenholt.com/ Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Recorded on May 17, 2021 DirectorFest 2021 is right around the corner, and to celebrate we're highlighting the directors that are bringing the virtual festival to life. The Drama League's New York Directing Fellowship lives at the heart of the organization's mission by providing industry-focused development and creative skill-building for emerging directors, with the annual director-focused festival serving as a culmination to the program. In this week's episode, The Drama League's Associate Artistic Director Nilan joins two of the current New York Fellows, Cait Robinson (The K of D) and Signe V. Harriday (the bull-jean stories.), in discussion about their journey as directors up to now and the road ahead for the American theater. To learn more and RSVP to DirectorFest, visit directorfest.org.   For more information about DirectorFest visit: https://directorfest.org/ RVSP for DirectorFest here: https://28476a.blackbaudhosting.com/28476a/DirectorFest-2021 For more information about Cait Robinson visit: https://www.cait-robinson.com/ For more information about Signe V. Harriday visit: https://www.signeharriday.com/ Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia  

Recorded on May 3, 2021 Aside from being an internationally renowned producer and director, helming award-winning productions of Blood Wedding in Japan and The Attic locally in New York, Ari Edelson is one of the most influential arts accelerators in the industry. As Artistic Director of Orchard Project and co-founder of Culture Craver, he has spent his career amplifying other artists and transforming the way people connect with and discover culture. In this episode of the podcast, Edelson joins The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks in a conversation about The Orchard Project’s bold vision and a new path ahead in the international theater scene. For more information about The Orchard Project and Air Edelson visit: https://secure.orchardproject.com/content/about-us  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Recorded on March 31, 2021 For over 25 years, audiences around the world have found joy in the trailblazing work of Stafford Arima. Nominated for an Olivier Award for his direction of the West End premiere of Ragtime, Arima has spent his career elevating the theater scene across the pod and across North America. In 2015, he made history when he became the first Asian-Canadian artist to direct a musical on Broadway, Allegiance starring Lea Salonga and George Takei, but his legacy also includes work with the Stratford Festival, Paper Mill Playhouse, Goodspeed Musicals, The Old Globe, and Theatre Calgary, where he currently serves as the Artistic Director. In this episode, The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks connects with Arima  about his introduction into the world of directing and the role artistic leaders play in creating a dialogue with the community.   For more information about Stafford Arima visit: http://staffordarima.com/index.html  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia  

Recorded on February 28, 2021 The Drama League’s commitment to directors spans across the globe, and in this week’s episode, we’re taking listeners to Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city, to connect with two of the region’s most revered theater practitioners. Kalina Wagenstein is the director of Art Office Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and circulate the performing arts and artists of Bulgaria at home and abroad. Additionally, she has led the Sofia brand of the Swiss Culture program, supported 400+ projects in culture and arts, and has held positions at the Bulgarian News Agency, The National Film Center, and the National Film Archive. Joining her is Dr. Petar Kaukov, Ph.D., the Associate Professor at the National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts in Sofia, and the former Deputy Director and CEO of Youth Theatre “Nikolay Binev,” one of the largest theaters in all of Bulgaria. A noted director across Europe, he has worked on many international exchange projects including the Icarus award-winning Bulgarian premiere of Avenue Q. In conversation with The Drama League’s Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Nilan, the artists dissect the structural differences in the American and Bulgarian arts scene while forecasting the future of international exchange in theater. The Drama League gratefully recognizes The Trust for Mutual Understanding for making this conversation possible with their generous support for the International Stage Directors Exchange.   For more information about TMU: http://www.tmuny.org/   Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Recorded on March 15, 2021 Dramaturgs have long played a critical role in developing and examining new works of theater, but the job is often difficult to describe to those unfamiliar with the show development process. Natasha Sinha, producer, dramaturg, and now Playwrights Horizons' Associate Artistic Director, is no stranger to the process, having played an integral role in developing new works by Michael R. Jackson, Grace McLean, Shakina Nayfack, Danny Pudi, Heather Raffo, and many more. In this episode, Sinha joins The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks to examine the role of the dramaturg in our ever-changing art form while discussing initiatives to improve the livelihoods of arts workers across the globe. For more information about Natasha Sinha & Beehive Dramaturgy Studio visit: http://www.beehivedramaturgy.com/natashasinha   If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources    Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia      

Recorded on February 21, 2021 The Drama League’s commitment to directors spans across the globe, and in this week’s episode, we’re taking listeners to Romania to explore the country’s cultural state of affairs with two of Eastern Europe's greatest visionaries. Maia Morgenstern has been called ‘The Meryl Streep of Romania,’ familiar to audiences around the world from her acclaimed role as Virgin Mary in “The Passion of the Christ” film in addition to her European Film Award-winning role as Nelan in “Balanta.” Morgenstern is currently the Artistic Director of the National Jewish Theater of Romania, the oldest continuously operating Yiddish-language theater in the world. Joining her is Letita Vladescu, an actress who has starred at the Bucharest National Theatre of Operetta and Music with credits including the recent smash comedy film “Miami Bici,” television series “Vlad,” and a highly acclaimed solo show Thy Sonia, written and directed by Lia Bugnar. In conversation with The Drama League’s Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Nilan, the artists discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the Romanian film and theater industry and look ahead to a promising future of cross-cultural exchange. The Drama League gratefully recognizes The Trust for Mutual Understanding for making this conversation possible with their generous support for the International Stage Directors Exchange.   For more information about TMU: http://www.tmuny.org/   If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Recorded on March 15, 2021 A multi-hyphenate artist in every sense, Kamilah Forbes has spent her career on the inside of New York’s greatest institutions and directing on stages alongside legends like Kenny Leon and Lynn Nottage. As an award-winning producer of theater and television with credits like NBC’s The Wiz Live, and Broadway’s A Raisin In The Sun, The Mountaintop, and Stick Fly, and as The Apollo Theater’s current Executive Producer, Forbes has forged several paths across genres and carries a commitment to creating works for, by, and about the Hip Hop generation. In this week’s episode, Forbes joins The Drama League’s Associate Artistic Director Nilan in conversation about what goes into the work she creates with an offering for a future generation of art makers. For more information about Kamilah Forbes and the Apollo Theatre visit: https://www.apollotheater.org/about/leadership/  If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia  

Recorded on December 9, 2020 Over the last 30+ years, The Center for International Theatre Development (CITD) has been a catalyst for theatrical global exchange, uniting performing artists from around the globe to work collaboratively on cross-cultural projects. CITD’s Director and Founder Philip Arnoult along with Associate Director Yury Urnov, who also serves as Wilma Theater’s Lead Artistic Director for the 2020-2021 season, have dedicated their careers to this work, forging a path for artists from East Africa, Russia, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Romania to enter the American theater scene, and vice-versa. In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks sits down with Arnoult and Urnov to discuss their ongoing work to amplify intercontinental exchange in the arts. The Drama League gratefully recognizes The Trust for Mutual Understanding (TMU) for making this conversation possible with their generous support for the International Stage Directors Exchange. For more information about TMU: http://www.tmuny.org/ For more information about CITD: https://www.citd.us/  If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Recorded on December 3, 2020 Since its founding in 1984, The Directors Project has been the core of The Drama League’s activity and mission as a developmental program for early and mid-career directors, providing talented emerging directors with transformative experiences and opportunities in the professional theatre through various fellowships and residencies. In a typical year, these year-long fellowships and residencies would result in DirectorFest, a multi-week theater festival highlighting the work of select fellows in January, but in a season unlike any other, the program and festival have been reworked to meet artists and audiences in this moment. For the premiere of this year’s reimagined DirectorFest, The Directors Project Classical Fellow Emma Rosa Went directs a benefit reading of Gallathea, written by John Lyly, presented in collaboration with Red Bull Theater. In this week’s episode, The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks joins Went to dive into the queer love story set inside of a classical myth now joyfully reclaimed for 2021, while also exploring what it means to create classical theater in a time where the present is so urgent.  For more information about Emma Rosa Went visit: http://www.emmawent.com/  To access tickets to Gallathea visit: https://www.redbulltheater.com/gallathea  For more information about Red Bull Theater: https://www.redbulltheater.com/about  For more information about DirectorFest 2021: https://directorfest.org/  If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Recorded on February 15, 2021   Wayne Brady is a household name, bringing joy and laughter into American homes for decades via television set in “Whose Line is it Anyway”, “The Wayne Brady Show”, “Let’s Make a Deal” and more. What many don’t know about the Emmy Award-winning entertainer, who has made his mark on Broadway in shows like Chicago, Kinky Boots, and Freestyle Love Supreme, and most recently Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical, is that his artistry began in the world of community theater, and to this day Brady is an outspoken champion for community arts access, education, and mental health awareness. In this week’s episode, he joins The Drama League Alumni / Board Member and Associate Artistic Director of McCarter Theatre Center Nicole A. Watson in a conversation about his ongoing work as an advocate and an artist.   For more information about Nicole A. Watson: http://www.nicoleawatson.com/    If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia  

Recorded on February 3, 2021 Born in Cape Town during the apartheid era and having moved to the states in her teens, Liesl Tommy is one of America’s most celebrated directors. She has staged work in theaters across the country and on Broadway, most notably becoming the first woman of color to be nominated for the Tony Award for Best Director of a Play with Danai Gurira’s Eclipsed. With an expansive TV directing career and big film projects like “Respect” starring Jennifer Hudson and Trevor Noah’s “Born A Crime” in the works, Tommy is paving the way for a new generation of inspired directors ready to make change on stages and screens all over the world. In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks joins Tommy in conversation to discuss her genre-defying career journey and her hopes for a post-pandemic world. If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Over the last year, theater companies have innovated radically to adapt to a new landscape brought on by COVID-19, several turning to digital platforms to produce their work, and some taking a different route. Artistic Stamp, a new theater company headed by Drama League alumni West Hyler and Shelley Butler, is using handwritten correspondence to connect audiences with their artists through the postal service, creating an intimate and interactive theatrical journey told through a series of letters sent directly to your mailbox. In this week’s episode, The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks joins the two Artistic Stamp co-creators to discuss the new theater company’s revolutionary approach to storytelling and how it’s breaking the mold for immersive theatrical experiences one letter at a time. For more information about Artistic Stamp: https://artisticstamp.com/  If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia

Recorded on November 9, 2020 Since the 1950s, educators have played a critical role in guiding the artform and establishing its core principles, but now with the industry’s landscape evolving as artists and patrons continue to challenge antiquated systems, how are the institutions responsible for training young artists adapting, and what role will they play in our ever-changing future? Join The Drama League’s Associate Artistic Director Nilan in conversation with theater educators from around the country in this podcast mini-series covering the ins and outs of undergraduate theater programs. In this week’s episode, we explore institutions in the Northeast United States with Marcus Giamatti (Temple University), Adrienne Kapstein (Pace University), Elizabeth Margid (Fordham University), Dr. Beth Schachter (Muhlenberg College), and Jill Stevenson (Marymount Manhattan College). For more information about Temple University visit: https://www.temple.edu/  For more information about Pace University visit: https://www.pace.edu/  For more information about Fordham University visit: https://www.fordham.edu/  For more information about Muhlenberg College visit: https://www.muhlenberg.edu/  For more information about Marymount Manhattan College visit: https://www.mmm.edu/  If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations Editing Services @catalinmedia 

Recorded on November 5, 2020 Since the 1950s, educators have played a critical role in guiding the artform and establishing its core principles, but now with the industry’s landscape evolving as artists and patrons continue to challenge antiquated systems, how are the institutions responsible for training young artists adapting, and what role will they play in our ever-changing future? Join The Drama League’s Associate Artistic Director Nilan in conversation with theater educators from around the country in this podcast mini-series covering the ins and outs of undergraduate theater programs. In this week’s episode, we explore institutions in the Midwest and South United States with Mark Castle (Samford University), Douglas Finlayson (Webster University), Paul Gatrell (Belmont University), and Matt Schwader (Avila University).  For more information about Samford University visit: https://www.samford.edu/  For more information about Webster University visit: https://www.webster.edu/  For more information about Belmont University visit: https://www.belmont.edu/  For more information about Avila University visit: https://www.avila.edu/  If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations For a transcript of this episode, click here.  Editing Services @catalinmedia   

The interviews in this episode were recorded over the course of October, November, and December 2020 Directors at their core are creators, leaders, and storytellers, and often the stories they share with audiences bring great success, both artistically and financially. However, the path to financial independence as a director isn’t as clear as one might expect. How can artists, producers, and patrons work together to create a more sustainable and tangible industry for its creative teams, and at what cost – literally. Join Drama League Associate Artistic Director Nilan and Directors Project alumni Danny Sharron along with some of our industry’s most critically-acclaimed directors Saheem Ali, David Cromer, Colette Robert, Jacob Padrón, Leigh Silverman, and Gabriel Stelian-Shanks in a season premiere three-part conversation about the economics of theater, pulling back the curtain on the class divisions built into the commercial and non-profit theater while reimagining a more equitable future for the industry. For more information about Danny Sharron visit: http://www.dannysharron.com/  For more information about Saheem Ali: https://www.saheemali.com/ For more information about David Cromer: https://www.steppenwolf.org/artists/david--cromer/ For more information about Colette Robert: https://www.coletterobert.com/  For more information about Jacob Padrón: http://www.solproject.org/jacob-padroacuten.html For more information about Leigh Silverman: https://sdcweb.org/staff/leigh-silverman/ If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations For a transcript of this episode, click here. Editing Services @catalinmedia 

The interviews in this episode were recorded over the course of October, November, and December 2020 Directors at their core are creators, leaders, and storytellers, and often the stories they share with audiences bring great success, both artistically and financially. However, the path to financial independence as a director isn’t as clear as one might expect. How can artists, producers, and patrons work together to create a more sustainable and tangible industry for its creative teams, and at what cost – literally. Join Drama League Associate Artistic Director Nilan and Directors Project alumni Danny Sharron along with some of our industry’s most critically-acclaimed directors Saheem Ali, David Cromer, Colette Robert, Jacob Padrón, Leigh Silverman, and Gabriel Stelian-Shanks in a season premiere three-part conversation about the economics of theater, pulling back the curtain on the class divisions built into the commercial and non-profit theater while reimagining a more equitable future for the industry. For more information about Danny Sharron visit: http://www.dannysharron.com/  For more information about Saheem Ali: https://www.saheemali.com/ For more information about David Cromer: https://www.steppenwolf.org/artists/david--cromer/ For more information about Colette Robert: https://www.coletterobert.com/  For more information about Jacob Padrón: http://www.solproject.org/jacob-padroacuten.html For more information about Leigh Silverman: https://sdcweb.org/staff/leigh-silverman/ If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations For a transcript for this episode, click here. Editing Services @catalinmedia 

The interviews in this episode were recorded over the course of October, November, and December 2020 Directors at their core are creators, leaders, and storytellers, and often the stories they share with audiences bring great success, both artistically and financially. However, the path to financial independence as a director isn’t as clear as one might expect. How can artists, producers, and patrons work together to create a more sustainable and tangible industry for its creative teams, and at what cost – literally. Join Drama League Associate Artistic Director Nilan and Directors Project alumni Danny Sharron along with some of our industry’s most critically-acclaimed directors Saheem Ali, David Cromer, Colette Robert, Jacob Padrón, Leigh Silverman, and Gabriel Stelian-Shanks in a season premiere three-part conversation about the economics of theater, pulling back the curtain on the class divisions built into the commercial and non-profit theater while reimagining a more equitable future for the industry. For more information about Danny Sharron visit: http://www.dannysharron.com/ For more information about Saheem Ali: https://www.saheemali.com/ For more information about David Cromer: https://www.steppenwolf.org/artists/david--cromer/ For more information about Colette Robert: https://www.coletterobert.com/ For more information about Jacob Padrón: http://www.solproject.org/jacob-padroacuten.html For more information about Leigh Silverman: https://sdcweb.org/staff/leigh-silverman/ If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources  Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations For a transcript for this episode, click here. Editing Services @catalinmedia 

Places, places everyone! Our digital series is back with a new name and new perspectives. In season 2 of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, we're going deep into the heart of theater-making as the industry poises to return to live performances this year. Don't miss our season premiere on January 13 featuring an ensemble of the American theater's most fearless stage directors tackling the most pressing issues of our time.   If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here:dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources    Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations  

Recorded on October 22, 2020   "It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves." - William Shakespeare   Some of the staff of The Drama League gather to look back at this unprecedented year and grapple with how they've been building and dreaming of a more equitable, diverse, inclusive, and mission-forwarding organization for the directors and audience we serve.    HOWWEWORKNOW, The Drama League’s acclaimed series of discussions that shape, distill, and share best practices about how the industry and craft of directing allies with active change on the ground. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.     If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here:dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources    Help support The Drama League: http://bit.ly/DLdonations   Learn more about Gabriel Stelian-Shanks: http://gabrielstelianshanks.com/   Learn more about Bevin Ross: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bevin-ross/   Learn more about Nilan: https://www.nilan.me/   Learn more about Ali Skye Bennet: http://www.aliskyebennet.com/   Learn more about Patrick Anthony Surillo: https://www.facebook.com/patrick.surillo   Learn more about Emily Lyon:  https://www.emilyalyon.com/   Editing services donated by:catalinmedia.com/    

September 13, 2020   Right off the heels of recording their play for Audible. Chonburi International Hotel & Butterfly Club's Laura Savia (Director & Associate Artistic Director of Williamstown Theatre Festival) and Shakina Nayfack (Actress/Playwright) come together to discuss what it takes to turn a stage play into a radio play, how to empower voices beyond their own in the room, and how to lead a team during a pandemic.    Chonburi International Hotel & Butterfly Club by Shakina Nayfack, presented by Williamstown Theatre Festival and Audible will be released on Audible on December 29, 2020.   #COLLABORATION, The Drama League's new series of conversations that provide a window into the partnership process between a director and a playwright, designer, producer, or actor. In each episode, artists will discuss their journey together on a project and their relationship as collaborators. The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning collaborators from around the world.     The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: http://bit.ly/DLdonations   Learn more about Williamtown Theatre Festival's Audible production of Chonburi International Hotel & Butterfly Club: https://wtfestival.org/main-events/chonburi-international-hotel-butterfly-club/   Learn more about Laura Savia: https://www.laurasavia.com/   Learn more about Shakina Nayfack: http://www.shakina.nyc/bio   Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/    

Recorded September 27, 2020   We check in with our friends in Bulgaria, a part of our International Stage Directors Exchange, to see how they've been navigating theatre-making during the pandemic. We were intrigued to hear about the new opportunities that are bringing together their state and independent theatre scene.  Gabriel Stelian-Shanks (Artistic Director) and Nilan (Associate Artistic Director) are joined in conversation by Panic Button Theatre's Vasilena Radeva and Nathan Cooper, and Momo Theatre Company's Vessilin Dimov for an insider look into theatre beyond our shores. This conversation is brought to you by the Trust For Mutual Understanding.    IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world.     The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Click here to donate.   This program is made possible by Trust for Mutual Understanding, learn more: http://www.tmuny.org/    Learn more about our International Stage Directors Exchange: http://www.dramaleague.org/programs/international-exchanges   Learn more about Panic Button Theatre: https://www.facebook.com/panicbuttontheatre/   Learn more about Theatre Company Momo: https://www.facebook.com/TheatreCompanyMOMO/   Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/  

Recorded on September 29, 2020 What makes a classic timeless and fresh? NOT THE GENDER OF THE PLAYWRIGHT! So why do men dominate the classical canon? Associate Artistic Director, Nilan sits down with the curators and creators of EXPAND THE CANON, a timely producable list of classic plays written by women. Mary Candler, Hedgepig Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director, Emily Lyon, Hedgepig Ensemble Associate Artistic Director, and performer/creator, Shannon Corethin speak to why the field has forgotten women in the classical canon, and how they are implementing change now. HOWWEWORKNOW, The Drama League’s acclaimed series of discussions that shape, distill, and share best practices about how the industry and craft of directing allies with active change on the ground. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Click here to donate.   Discover the 9 plays on the list: ExpandTheCanon.com  Learn more about the company: HedgepigEnsemble.org  Learn more about Mary Candler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-candler     Learn more about Shannon Corenthin: https://www.shannoncorenthin.com/  Learn more about Emily Lyon: EmilyALyon.com   

Recorded on July 28, 2020   Visionary director and arts leader David Mendizábal joins Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks to talk about how one builds a career path that fights for social justice and heals along the way.    The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: http://bit.ly/DLdonations   Learn more about David Mendizábal: http://www.davidmendizabal.com/   Learn more about The Movement Theatre Company: https://www.themovementtheatrecompany.org/   Learn more about The Sol Project: http://www.solproject.org/   Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/

Recorded on September 17, 2020   How do you know a story is worth telling? Even if that story scares you? Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks talks with Travis Russ writer, director, and Artistic Diretor of Life Jacket Theatre about how he creates moving dramas using material that some may feel is taboo.    IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world.   The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: https://tickets.dramaleague.org/donations   Learn more about Life Jacket Theatre: http://www.lifejackettheatre.org/   Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/

Recorded on August 17, 2020   We attended the bilingual immersive quinceañera that is bringing the party and rocking the vote. Estefanía Fadul (director), Galia Backal (Associate Director), Christina Watanabe (Designer), and Camila Pérez Santiago (Carla) lets us in on how they created the most civically engaged birthday party ever that's trying to register Latinx communities across the country.     #COLLABORATION, The Drama League's new series of conversations that provide a window into the partnership process between a director and a playwright, designer, producer, or actor. In each episode, artists will discuss their journey together on a project and their relationship as collaborators. The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning collaborators from around the world.     The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: https://tickets.dramaleague.org/donations If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Register to Vote here: https://vote.gov/   Learn more about Estefanía Fadul: https://www.estefaniafadul.com/   Learn more about Galia Backal: https://www.galiabackal.com/   Learn more about Christina Watanabe: http://www.starryeyedlighting.com/   Learn more about Camila Pérez Santiago: https://www.backstage.com/u/camilaperezsantiago/ Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/    

Recorded on September 11, 2020   Do you remember your high school civics class? How about this one, what is gerrymandering? Or Mary Flanagan's critical play theory? Associate Artistic Director Nilan, sat down with two art activists who have created a show, Packing and Cracking, that gives its audience a joyfully hilarious educational lesson about gerrymandering and red-lining. Rachel Gita Karp (Director/Creator) and Joesph Amodei (Designer/Creator) lead us through their journey and work to make America civically educated again.    IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world.   The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight Learn more about the show: https://www.packingandcracking.com/ Learn more about Rachel Gita Karp: https://www.rachelkarp.com/ Learn more about Joseph Amodei: https://www.jamodei.com/ Buy a ticket Packing and Cracking at the Philadelphia Fringe Festival: https://fringearts.com/event/packing-and-cracking/  

Recorded on August 5, 2020   Keeping artists working. Keeping artists creating. Keeping artists serving their communities. Are deep concerns for theatre companies across the nation. San Francisco Shakespeare Festival embraced these challenges with curiosity, fearlessness, and innovation. Associate Artistic Director Nilan sits down with Elizabeth Carter (Director), Rebecca J. Ennals (Artistic Director), Karen Schleifer (Stage Manager), and Neal Ormond (Technical Director) to discuss how they got AEA to agree to a live digital theatre contract? Rehearsed in a completely socially distant manner? And crafted an unprecedented production of KING LEAR, creating one of the most riveting "LIVE" experiences over the internet.    HOWWEWORKNOW, The Drama League’s acclaimed series of discussions that shape, distill, and share best practices about how the industry and craft of directing allies with active change on the ground. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here:dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources San Francisco Shake Speare Festival: www.sfshakes.org/ King Lear (Now Running): www.youtube.com/user/SFShakes/featured Elizabeth Carter: www.elizabethcarterarts.com/ Editing services donated by:catalinmedia.com/

Recorded on August 4, 2020 How the American Theatre returns is a burning question in debate across the nation. We are joined by an esteemed virologist, Dr. Matthew Frieman, PhD, to discuss his work on a COVID-19 vaccine. Ali Skye Bennet, Artistic Producer leads an important discussion with Dr. Frieman and our current directing fellows (Cristina Angeles, Signe V. Harriday, Taylor Haven Holt, Cait Robinson, and Emma Rosa Went). What happens next is a glimpse into the future of the work we all need to do to ensure we come back safe and strong. HOWWEWORKNOW, The Drama League’s acclaimed series of discussions that shape, distill, and share best practices about how the industry and craft of directing allies with active change on the ground. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here:dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Novavax’s Phase 1 data: https://cnb.cx/3ibQhmT Editing services donated by:catalinmedia.com/

Recorded on July 17, 2020   The skillfully compassionate director and visionary arts leader Mei Ann Teo joins the series from her native country of Singapore. Nilan, Associate Artistic Director, moderates the discussion from Teo's thoughts on consciously decreasing harm in the workplace, the work of the auteur, her work as Producing Artistic Director of Musical Theatre Factory, and so much more.    IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world.   The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here:dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Mei Ann Teo: https://meiannteo.squarespace.com/    Watch Teo's film Let Me Kill My Mother First: https://www.viddsee.com/video/let-me-kill-my-mother-first/in32i?locale=id     Learn more about Musical Theatre Factory: https://mtf.nyc/   Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/

This conversation was recorded in early June 2020, in wake of the murders of George Floyd, Tony McDade, Rayshard Brooks, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and far too many others. We hold their families in our thoughts and wish for swift justice. We’ve attached links in this video and in its description to point you towards just a few of the many ways you can support Black lives, Indigenous lives, and people of color. We hope to not distract from the important work happening in our world, but ally it with light from artists, and to spread leadership and hope. We recognize and stand with the following organizations:   Black Lives Matter, blacklivesmatter.com Black Visions Collective, blackvisionsmn.org NAACP Legal Defense Fund, naacpldf.org American Civil Liberties Union, action.aclu.org/give/now National Resource List, linktr.ee/NationalResourcesList Recorded on June 12, 2020   We sat down with Conor McPherson (Director/Writer) and Simon Hale (Orchestration, Arrangements, and Music Direction) from Broadway's Girl From North Country to ask how McPherson blew up the traditional musical form (with the help of Hale) to create this Bob Dylan music inspired force of nature of production.   #COLLABORATION, The Drama League's new series of conversations that provide a window into the partnership process between a director and a playwright, designer, producer, or actor. In each episode, artists will discuss their journey together on a project and their relationship as collaborators. The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning collaborators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Girl From North Country: https://northcountryonbroadway.com/   Learn more about Conor McPherson: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0574217/   Learn more about Simon Hale: https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-cast-staff/simon-hale-454222   Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/  

This conversation was recorded in late May 2020, prior to the murders of George Floyd, Tony McDade, and Rayshard Brooks, and in the wake of the murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and far too many others. We hold their families in our thoughts and wish for swift justice. We’ve attached links in this video and in its description to point you towards just a few of the many ways you can support Black lives, Indigenous lives, and people of color. We hope to not distract from the important work happening in our world, but ally it with light from artists, and to spread leadership and hope. We recognize and stand with the following organizations: Black Lives Matter, blacklivesmatter.com Black Visions Collective, blackvisionsmn.org NAACP Legal Defense Fund, naacpldf.org American Civil Liberties Union, action.aclu.org/give/now National Resource List, linktr.ee/NationalResourcesList Recorded on May 11, 2020 The lead creatives of Audible's The Half-Life of Marie Curie look back on what it takes to create theatre for the ear and eye. Director Gaye Taylor Upchurch (The Blameless, The Last Match, Animal) and playwright Lauren Gunderson (I and You, The Book of Will, Natural Shocks) walks us from play commission to production. #COLLABORATION, The Drama League's new series of conversations that provide a window into the partnership process between a director and a playwright, designer, producer, or actor. In each episode, artists will discuss their journey together on a project and their relationship as collaborators. The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning collaborators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Listen to The Half-Life of Marie Curie on Audible: https://adbl.co/2Cc3I6I Learn more about Gaye Taylor Upchurch: https://www.gtupchurch.com/ Learn more about Lauren Gunderson: http://laurengunderson.com/ Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/ --

This conversation was recorded in late May 2020, prior to the murders of George Floyd, Tony McDade, and Rayshard Brooks, and in the wake of the murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and far too many others. We hold their families in our thoughts and wish for swift justice. We’ve attached links in this video and in its description to point you towards just a few of the many ways you can support Black lives, Indigenous lives, and people of color. We hope to not distract from the important work happening in our world, but ally it with light from artists, and to spread leadership and hope. We recognize and stand with the following organizations: Black Lives Matter, blacklivesmatter.com Black Visions Collective, blackvisionsmn.org NAACP Legal Defense Fund, naacpldf.org American Civil Liberties Union, action.aclu.org/give/now National Resource List, linktr.ee/NationalResourcesList Recorded on May 13, 2020 The incomparable director Sheryl Kaller shares her remarkable career with us on this week's episode. Gabriel Stelian-Shanks, Artistic Director, moderates the discussion from Kaller's thoughts on the evolution of women in the field, being a working parent in the theatre, and her work with Terrence McNally, Billy Porter, and Christopher Durang. IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here:dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Sheryl Kaller: https://www.broadwayworld.com/people/Sheryl-Kaller/ Editing services donated by: https://catalinmedia.com/

This conversation was recorded in late May 2020, prior to the murders of George Floyd, Tony McDade, and Rayshard Brooks, and in the wake of the murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and far too many others. We hold their families in our thoughts and wish for swift justice. We’ve attached links in this video and in its description to point you towards just a few of the many ways you can support Black lives, Indigenous lives, and people of color. We hope to not distract from the important work happening in our world, but ally it with light from artists, and to spread leadership and hope. We recognize and stand with the following organizations: Black Lives Matter, blacklivesmatter.com Black Visions Collective, blackvisionsmn.org NAACP Legal Defense Fund, naacpldf.org American Civil Liberties Union, action.aclu.org/give/now National Resource List, linktr.ee/NationalResourcesList Recorded on May 20, 2020 We gathered three rising stars of the field who serve our industry as both director and associate artistic director to debunk what exactly is the role of an associate artistic director? We also deep-dived into the experience of being a woman of color on the job at a historically White institution. Drama League alums Nicole A. Watson (Round House Theatre), Dawn Monique Williams (Aurora Theatre Company), and Pirronne Yousefzadeh (Geva Theatre Center) sit down with our Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks. IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Watch the interview on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/434185313/2ec2932dfa  Learn more about Nicole A. Watson: nicoleawatson.com/ Learn more about Dawn Monique Williams: dawnmoniquewilliams.com/ Learn more about Pirronne Yousefzadeh: pirronne.com/ A list of artistic leaders of color to know: Meila Bensussen Artistic Director Hartford Stage Chanel Bragg Associate Artistic Director Arizona Theatre Company Snehal Desai Artistic Director East West Players Barry Fleming Artistic Director Actors Theatre of Louisville Nataki Garrett Artistic Director Oregon Shakespeare Festival Maria Manuela Goyanes Artistic Director Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company Rebecca Martinez Associate Artistic Director WP Theater Jonathan McCrory Artistic Director National Black Theatre Muriel Miguel Artistic Director Spiderwoman Theater Raelle Myrick-Hodges Creative Director 651 ARTS Evren Odcikin Interim Associate Artistic Director Oregon Shakespeare Festival Jacob G. Padron Artistic Director Long Wharf Theatre Ralph B. Peña Producing Artistic Director Ma-Yi Theater Company Michael A. Sheppard Artistic Director Celebration Theatre Hana S. Sherif Artistic Director The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis Harold Steward Producing Co-Executive Director The Theater Offensive Stephanie Ybarra Artistic Director Baltimore Center Stage and many more.

This conversation was recorded in late May 2020, in the wake of the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and Tony McDade. We hold their families in our thoughts and wish for swift justice. We’ve attached links in this video and in its description to point you towards just a few of the many ways you can support Black lives, Indigenous lives, and people of color. We hope to not distract from the important work happening in our world, but ally it with light from artists, and to spread leadership and hope. We recognize and stand with the following organizations: Black Lives Matter, blacklivesmatter.com Black Visions Collective, blackvisionsmn.org/ NAACP Legal Defense Fund, naacpldf.org/ American Civil Liberties Union, action.aclu.org/give/now Recorded on May 28, 2020 The Drama League gathered the leaders of our nation’s top LGBTQIA+ theatre companies. The conversation that unfolded investigated why queer specific space is important in the American Theatre? How do we honor voices of the past, present, and future? Who is overlooked in our communities? How do we lead our communities and its allies towards a more equitable, authentic, diverse, and inclusive practice? And so much more! The Drama League’s Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks is joined by Megan Carney (About Face Theatre), Paul Conroy (Out Front Theatre Company), Philip Crosby (Richmond Triangle Players), John Fisher (Theatre Rhinoceros), Adam Odsess-Rubin (National Queer Theater), Michael A. Sheppard (Celebration Theatre), Harold Steward (The Theater Offensive), and Zak Stowe (Stage Q) in an unprecedented conversation about queering the American theatre.  IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight  If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Megan Carney and About Face Theatre: aboutfacetheatre.com/ Learn more about Paul Conroy and Out Front Theatre Company: outfronttheatre.com/ Learn more about Philip Crosby and Richmond Triangle Players: rtriangle.org/ Learn more about John Fisher and Theatre Rhinoceros: therhino.org/ Learn more about Adam Odsess-Rubin and National Queer Theater: nationalqueertheater.org/ Learn more about Michael A. Sheppard and Celebration Theatre: celebrationtheatre.com/ Learn more about Harold Steward and The Theater Offensive: thetheateroffensive.org/ Learn more about Zak Stowe and Stage Q: stageq.org/ Watch the interview on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/431895548/65fcc1d27e Learn more about The Drama League: dramaleague.org/ Video Editing Services provided by @catalinmedia

The conversation that you are about to witness was recorded on May 8, 2020, before the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmad Arbery, and Tony McDade. We hold their families in our thoughts and wish for swift justice. We've attached links in this video and in the description to point you towards ways to support Black lives. We hope to not distract from the work on the ground but ally it with light from Black artists. We feel it is important to share this conversation to spread light, leadership, and hope from one of the field's most exceptional Black voices. We hope you enjoy In Conversation with Lileana Blain-Cruz. We recognize and stand with the following organizations:  Black Lives Matter, https://secure.actblue.com/donate/ms_blm_homepage_2019 Black Visions Collective, https://www.blackvisionsmn.org/ NAACP Legal Defense Fund, https://www.naacpldf.org/ American Civil Liberties Union, https://action.aclu.org/give/now In this episode, the incredible visionary director Lileana Blain-Cruz joins artistic director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks, to discuss her love of language, her wish to collaborate with Rihanna, and the steps she takes in keeping her work active.   IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Lileana Blain-Cruz: http://www.lileanablaincruz.com/   Watch the interview on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/425512714 Learn more about The Drama League: http://www.dramaleague.org/   Video Editing Services provided by @catalinmedia

In this episode, the artists of Westside Theatre's revival of Little Shop of Horrors look back on their eventful creative journey together. Director Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening, Thoroughly Modern Millie, A View from the Bridge), actor Christian Borle (Peter and the Starcatcher, Smash, Something Rotten!), and actor Jonathan Groff (Hamilton, Frozen, Looking) deep dive into their long history of working with each other across theater and film. #COLLABORATION, The Drama League's new series of conversations that provide a window into the partnership process between a director and a playwright, designer, producer, or actor. In each episode, artists will discuss their journey together on a project and their relationship as collaborators. The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning collaborators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Little Shop of Horrors: https://www.littleshopnyc.com/ Learn more about Michael Mayer: https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-cast-staff/michael-mayer-15595 Learn more about Christian Borle: https://www.broadwayworld.com/people/Christian-Borle/ Learn more about Jonathan Groff: https://www.broadwayworld.com/people/Jonathan-Groff/ Watch the interview on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/422921385/b10b4d1cbf Learn more about The Drama League: dramaleague.org/ Video Editing Services provided by @catalinmedia

In this episode, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks sits down with director Desdemona Chiang, to discuss her tremendous national directing career, her work to further Asian American stories on stage, and how she's developed a reputation for directing across all genres. IN CONVERSATION, The Drama League's acclaimed series of discussions with the directors changing the face of theater, television, and film, is now online! The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning creators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Desdemona Chiang: https://www.desdemona.org/blog/   Watch the interview on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/420517347  Learn more about The Drama League: dramaleague.org/ Video Editing Services provided by @catalinmedia  

In this episode, the creatives of Broadway's Jagged Little Pill look back on their creative process.  Director Diane Paulus (Waitress, Hair, Pippin, Finding Neverland), movement direction & choreography Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui (Babel, 生长genesis, Fractus V), and actress Elizabeth Stanley (On the Town, The Bridges of Madison County, Ragtime) deep dive into the making of Jagged Little Pill from its beginnings at American Repertory Theatre to it's opening on Broadway.  #COLLABORATION, The Drama League's new series of conversations that provide a window into the partnership process between a director and a playwright, designer, producer, or actor. In each episode, artists will discuss their journey together on a project and their relationship as collaborators. The process of creating art is revealed in these intimate, surprising, and wide-ranging conversations with award-winning collaborators from around the world. The artists in this video have donated their time and fees to help provide much-needed aid, relief, and programs for stage directors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help! Donate here: dramaleague.org/ghostlight If you're a director needing assistance, visit our COVID-19 resources and emergency relief programs here: dramaleague.org/covidresources/covid19resources Learn more about Jagged Little Pill:  https://jaggedlittlepill.com/   Learn more about Diane Paulus:  http://www.dianepaulus.net/   Learn more about Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui: http://www.east-man.be/en/people/161/Sidi-Larbi-Cherkaoui   Learn more about Elizabeth Stanley: http://www.abouttheartists.com/artists/294810-elizabeth-stanley   Learn more about American Repertory Theatre:  https://americanrepertorytheater.org/   Learn more about the album/creator: https://alanis.com/    Watch the interview on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/417747999/27949c8358  Learn more about The Drama League: dramaleague.org/ Video Editing Services provided by @catalinmedia