Fulbright Scholar: Egypt

Fulbright Scholar to Egypt – 2021–2022
Professor of Physical Theatre and Movement | Academy of Arts, Cairo
Project Title: Devised Theatre as a Tool for Community Transformation

In 2021–2022, I was honored to receive a Fulbright Scholar Award to Egypt, where I served as a Professor of Physical Theatre and Movement at the Egyptian Academy of Arts in Cairo. My Fulbright project, Devised Theatre as a Tool for Community Transformation, focused on using ensemble-based creation and physical storytelling to foster collaboration, healing, and social connection through performance.

Throughout the year, I taught physical theatre and movement to students at the Academy, devised original work with student ensembles, and directed multiple productions that centered embodied storytelling and collaborative creation. I also taught Direction as part of the Physical Theatre Program at NAHDA Arts School, working with emerging artists to develop their own creative voices and explore the process of leading devised, movement-based work.

One of the highlights of my residency was directing a clown performance at the Nihad Saliha Theatre, created in partnership with students from the Academy. The piece explored themes of joy, absurdity, and human connection through physical comedy and ensemble-based play.

Another key project was a four-day intensive workshop and culminating performance with twelve emerging artists from across Cairo, 10th of Ramadan City, and Mansoura. The participants came from diverse fields of study and collaborated to create an original performance using acrobatic movement, gesture, and dance. The process emphasized co-creation without a traditional choreographer or director—highlighting the power of collective storytelling through the body.

This year in Cairo deepened my artistic practice, expanded my global collaborations, and reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of movement, laughter, and devised performance.