Cross-Cultural DramaturgÂ
My dramaturgical practice is a bridge between cultures, texts, and lived realities. Whether working in the United States or Iran, I approach the rehearsal room as a site of "cultural translation," ensuring that performance honors the specific political and social contexts of its subject matter.
In the U.S., my work has centered on advocating for underrepresented voices in new play development, such as serving as dramaturg for The Devils Between Us at the University of Kansas and curating community-responsive events like KU For Ukraine. These projects extend my decade of experience in Iran, where I served as a dramaturg for street theatre (Magic Words) and experimental works (Barbi, Growing Carrots), often navigating complex censorship and social codes to bring urgent stories to the public.
As a scholar-artist, I view dramaturgy not just as research, but as the ethical framework that allows ensembles to take risks and audiences to engage with difficult truths.
Creative Producing & Community Architecture
I define producing as the architecture of community. My career has moved between the intimate work of the studio and the large-scale management of festivals and educational programs. I specialize in building infrastructure that allows art to thrive, from securing funding to managing publication logistics.
My leadership experience includes serving as Research Chair for the Third Golden Balloon Playwriting Festival in Iran, where I managed a national jury and oversaw the publication of a seven-volume collection of plays. In Lawrence, Kansas, I applied these skills to found the Persian Cultural Adventure and the Iranian Community Movie Night, creating bilingual spaces for cultural exchange.
Whether producing a localized event like The Uninvited Guest or managing international collaborations, I am dedicated to high-touch production models that prioritize accessibility, sustainability, and student agency.