MEET THE SELECTED FELLOWS

Mandegar is an Iranian award-winning playwright who has made a significant mark on the international theater scene. Now based in New York City, his plays delve into themes of identity, displacement, and cultural heritage, bridging cultures and generations with emotional depth and insightful storytelling.

Dr. McWhorter is a biochemist turned playwright, blending scientific precision with creative storytelling. With a PhD in Biochemistry, Al-e spent years researching cellular processes before discovering a passion for the stage. Now, they craft thought-provoking plays that explore the intersection of science, humanity, and the arts.

Kenny Williams is a former choreographer specializing in movement theory who now writes plays that fuse physicality with narrative. Drawing on a deep understanding of the body in motion, his work explores how gesture, rhythm, and space can shape story and character. His plays are known for their visceral energy and emotional precision.

Gukasyan’s work as a filmmaker blurs the line between cinema vérité and narrative fiction. His revolutionary transition to the stage was ignited when his last film was censored by distributors for addressing the collusion between Turkish oil and US diplomacy in denying the Armenian genocide. His work often centers themes of diaspora.

Eve’s essays have been published in the New Yorker, Paris Review, and will soon be released as a collection in the Fall titled, “The Case for Empathy.” Her work is often told through the lens of her nearly three decade career as a humanitarian lawyer.

Hails from three generations of writers from Cape Cod. His first book of poetry, “Ephemeral Echoes” made Obama’s Favorite Books of the Year list. Murray received a Masters in Poetry from Yale and often blends various mediums to exhibit his texts. He is based in Dublin.

McCarthy is a former culture critic turned playwright, known for their sharp insights and thought-provoking narratives. With a background in media and a keen eye for societal trends, McCarthy’s transition to playwriting brought a fresh perspective to the stage. Their works often explore the complexities of modern culture, identity, and human connection, earning acclaim for their wit and depth.