Introducing The BIPOC Director Database: a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive census of America’s community of theatre directors of color.
“We are reckoning with a life in the theatre that has for too long been the exclusive purview of a select few. Artists of color are no longer willing to accept a career that will mean primarily working on smaller stages, on projects limited to their own race or ethnicity, with little, if any, access to the commercial arena.” – Laura Penn, from “On The Edge: A Next Stage Report”
For the past six months I’ve been participating in TCG’s “Rising Leaders of Color” program where we’re asking some vital questions about where our industry is right now, and where it’s going. A question I keep coming back to:
How do BIPOC theatre directors create and sustain professional opportunities?
Whether it’s about “getting your foot in the door,” “getting hired back for another gig,” or “moving up to the larger stages,” BIPOC directors at all stages of their careers face enormous barriers in the American theatre. Recent statistical analyses such as SDC’s “On the Edge: A Next Stage Report” and AAPAC’s “The Visibility Report: Racial Representation on NYC Stages” outline the many inequities between BIPOC directors and our white colleagues.
The reasons behind these inequities are numerous, as are the justifications and apologies put forward by those responsible for hiring directors. Whether it’s an artistic director, a producer, or a playwright, a common refrain is: “I’d like to hire more BIPOC directors, if only I knew where to find them.” Putting aside any judgement of that excuse, let’s make things simple. There is now a BIPOC Director Database. If anyone is looking for a BIPOC director, now they can definitely find them.
Created by me, Kareem Fahmy, and inspired by Megan Sandberg-Zakian‘s POC Designers & Technicians List (Kareem and Megan are two of the co-founders of the consulting group Maia Directors) this database collects information about BIPOC directors working all over the U.S. and will be made available to artistic directors, agents, playwrights, producers, and any other theatre professionals who request it.
You’re probably asking some questions, so I’ll answer!
Q: I’m a BIPOC Director and would like to be in the Database. How do I get added?
A: You add yourself. Fill out the online form found HERE.
- What questions are on the online form?
A. The basics: name, contact info, demographics, union status, agent information (if you have one), what area of the country you live in and where you can be a local hire. You’ll also be asked where you feel you are in your career (from emerging/early career to established professional) so that you can get connected to opportunities that are suitable for your level. - I’m not emerging, but mid-career or established, should I still add myself to this Database?
A. Absolutely. The database is for ALL career levels. As long as you’re a BIPOC director, this database is for you. - Once I’ve added myself to the Database, will I be able to update my responses/information in the future?
A. Yes. You’ll receive instructions of how to do so when you fill out the form. - Is the Database public?
A. Not yet. The Database will be made public in spring 2021. As of now it’s still being populated with names. Add yourself today!
If you have thoughts, questions, or suggestions about the BIPOC Director Database, don’t hesitate to reach out. And please spread the word! Our industry is on the brink of enormous change, and it’s my hope that this Database can help usher in more inclusive and equitable future for our field.
– Kareem Fahmy