Carene Rose Mekertichyan
artist.
activist.
angelena.
Photo by Bliss Braoudakis
NEWS
Say My Name Newport Beach Screening & Nomination
October 19, 2024
Fresh off our Best Experimental Film win at the Boden International Film Festival in Sweden, Mariam Meliksetyan's documentary film Say My Name will have its U.S. premiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival on October 19th. Get tickets here. Say My Name was also nominated for Best Documentary Film at the ARPA International Film Festival and will screen at the famous Harmony Gold Theater and online. Learn more here.
Black Bar Social: One Who Looks at the Cup at The Music Center
September 17, 2024
On September 17th The Music Center will be hosting a Black Bar Social for the film iteration of Mashinka Firunts Hakopian's One Who Looks at the Cup. The film is directed by Atlas Acopian and accompanies the REDCAT exhibition on view. The event on the 17th is FREE and includes Armenian coffee and refreshments in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. RSVP for the Black Bar Social here and the ticketed A More Than Human Tongue experience now through November 3rd here.
All Watched Over by Machines of Loving Grace Opening Reception
September 12, 2024
I'm honored to be part of artist and dear friend Mashinka Firunts Hakopian's piece in the new REDCAT exhibition All Watched Over by Machines of Loving Grace. This piece explores alternative paths for the future of AI technology rooted in diverse conceptions of technology, cognition, and life. RSVP for the opening reception and learn more about the installation and other events here.
Mama's Dresses / A Dress for Mama Performances Begin
August 16, 2024
I spent an unforgettable week in Utah at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta as part of the Kayenta New Play Lab. It was such a gift to explore the prose of Sarahjeen François under the direction of Donna Simone Johnson alongside Daphne Gabriel and Latoya Cameron! This staged reading of Mama's Dresses / A Dress for Mama is performed in the Lorraine Boccardo Theatre at 7:30pm and Saturday at 4pm. Learn more here.
Began Rehearsals for Kayenta New Play Lab
August 8, 2024
I have the privilege of heading off to Utah to help develop the new play Mama's Dresses / A Dress for Mama by Sarahjeen François under the direction of Donna Simone Johnson as part of the Kayenta New Play Lab! This staged reading will be performed in the Lorraine Boccardo Theatre in the Center for the Arts at Kayenta at 7:30pm, August 16th and 4pm, August 17th. Learn more here.
Say My Name is a Winner in Sweden
July 30, 2024
Mariam Meliksetyan's documentary film Say My Name is won Best Experimental Film at the Boden International Film Festival in Sweden! The film explores the experiences of individuals whose names have been deemed "difficult" by western standards. Learn more about BIFF and our film here and stay tuned for future screenings!
Boston Court Pasadena NPRF24
July 20, 2024
I had a blast reading stage directions for Gloria Oladipo's The Care and Keeping of Schizophrenia (and Other Demons) as part of Boston Court's New Play Reading Festival directed by Celia Mandela Rivera. Learn more here.
Mama Mama Wins Five Scenies Including Best Ensemble
July 16, 2024
For two decades Stage Scene LA has honored Southern California theatre with the Scenies. Of 154 eligible productions this year, Coin & Ghost's Mama Mama Can't You See was honored with five awards! We won Outstanding Ensemble in a Play with Movement and Dance, Best Production of a Play, Best Direction of a Play with Movement and Dance, Best Choreography of a Play with Movement and Dance, and our Sound Designer Joseph "Sloe" Slawinski was honored for multiple productions! If you missed this powerful piece you can find production photos here, details here, and the full list of Scenies here.
Say My Name BIFF Official Selection
July 8, 2024
Mariam Meliksetyan's documentary film Say My Name is now an Official Selection of Boden International Film Festival and is off to Sweden! The film explores the experiences of individuals whose names have been deemed "difficult" by western standards. Learn more about BIFF here and stay tuned for future screenings!
HUNNYSWEET Wins at Hollywood Fringe Awards
July 1, 2024
At this year's Hollywood Fringe Awards, Coin & Ghost's HUNNYSWEET: An Adult Adventure Through the Hundred Acre Wood won the Three Clubs Award which means...we'll be back for an encore performance! We also made the short list of five productions nominated for Best Musical. View production photos here and check out the C&G landing page here.
Boys About Town #1 World Premiere at ATHFF
June 28, 2024
VoxLab Residency Performance
June 27, 2024
I was selected as a 2024 VoxLab Artist in Residence and spent the most incredible week resting, writing, and using resources for research at my alma mater Dartmouth College. VoxLab is an annual developmental arts laboratory focused on the work of Dartmouth alumni. My time culminated in a short staged reading performance of my work which was followed by a talk back. It is hard to articulate just how special and integral to the creation of this work this week at VoxLab has been; I look forward to sharing more soon!
artEquity Black Playwrights Gathering
June 19, 2024
It was an honor to be invited to the artEquity Black Playwrights Gathering hosted by Aleshea Harris and Dominique Morisseau on Juneteenth. I was blessed to have the opportunity to hold space with peers and legends whose work has informed my artistry. Read the press release here and learn more at artEquity here.
Boys Nominated - Wins Best Actor in NYC
June 18, 2024
Boys About Town #1 picked up its first win at the 6th Annual Transparent Film Festival for Best Actor - Cole Ready! BAT was also nominated for Best No-Budget Feature and Best Director. Mike Cuenca's film (shot - and told - over the course of six years) is currently in post-production and will be released in four parts. Watch the trailer for Part 1 here, learn more about the festival here and film here.
HUNNYSWEET Begins
June 10, 2024
Coin & Ghost's Hollywood Fringe production HUNNYSWEET: An Adult Adventure Through the Hundred Acre Wood has it's one and only preview tonight and only four shows after that on the 14-15 and 28-29 so grab your tickets here before they're gone! You won't want to miss this burlesque-filled romp through the Hundred Acre Wood friends, trust me! Use discount code OHBOTHER for $10 off. Check out the C&G landing page here.
Wrapped Production on Sugar
May 29, 2024
That's a wrap on production for my third feature film Sugar, Directed by Harry L. Michaels Jr.! In our final shoot date I had the honor of going back to my roots as a singer and doing some live gospel. It has been such a gift to be part of a production by and for the Black community that uplifts and centers such a critical piece of the history of Black Angelenos. Recording three original tracks for the film was too special to fully articulate. Stay tuned for more info!
Sugar Shoot Continues
May 26, 2024
I had my second shoot date for the film Sugar in which I portray jazz singer Betty Songbird and wrapped all musical numbers for the three original tracks I pre-recorded for the film. Stay tuned for more info!
Boys About Town Pt. I to Screen in NYC
May 29, 2024
Boys About Town #1 will screen live on June 13th at 6pm at the Producer's Club in NYC as part of the 6th Annual Transparent Film Festival. Mike Cuenca's film (shot - and told - over the course of six years) is currently in post-production and will be released in four parts. Watch the trailer for Part 1 here, learn more about the festival here and film here.
Began Shooting Film Sugar
May 14, 2024
I began shooting my third feature film Sugar, Directed by Harry L. Michaels Jr. Sugar explores the erased history of the Sugar Hill area of Los Angeles which became a hub of Black life before being destroyed my systemically racist eminent domain practices. I play jazz singer Betty Songbird and recorded three original tracks for the film. Stay tuned for more info!
CTG Leadership Circle Announcement
May 2, 2024
HUNNYSWEET Hollywood Fringe Announcement & Tickets
May 1, 2024
ISC Saints & Sinners Gala
April 20, 2024
I had a blast performing with the ISC house band The Prescription as part of my theatrical home Independent Shakespeare Co.'s annual gala! This year's theme was Saints & Sinners. To learn more and support our spring fundraising campaign head here.
Center Theatre Group "Going Pro"
April 20, 2024
What a gift it is to return as a speaker for Center Theatre Group's Going Pro Career Fair for the third year in a row. This year I spoke about Insurance and Survival Jobs to three groups of young theatre artists. You can learn more here.
(Re)Membering: Armenian Writers Against Commemoration Announced
March 25, 2024
In honor of this year's Armenian Genocide commemoration and the ongoing nature of the genocide, I will be sharing some poetry and writing as part of the International Armenian Literary Alliance (IALA)'s (Re)Membering: Armenian Writers Against Commemoration at Beyond Baroque. You can learn more here and reserve your free tickets here.
"I'll Be Your Villain" Performance
February 12, 2024
It was wonderful to have such a lovely house at The Road Theatre Company for our staged reading performance of Chelsea Sutton's new poignant dark comedy I'll Be Your Villain, Directed by Carly DW Bones. Learn more about the Road's Under Construction here.
Began Rehearsals for "I'll Be Your Villain"
February 8, 2024
I get to work with the brilliant Chelsea Sutton and Carly DW Bones as part of The Road Theatre Company's Under Construction Play Reading Series. Written by Sutton and Directed by Bones, you only have one night to catch this performance February 12th at 7:30pm. Purchase tickets here for a suggested donation of $15.
Carousel of Fools
January 25, 2024
It was such a gift to reunite with my Rogue Artists family and perform and sing as Tamar the Mermaid for the one-night only immersive sideshow Carousel of Fools. This night at the historic 100-year old Santa Monica Pier Carousel was one to remember. Learn more here.
Wrapped Six-Year Film "Boys About Town"
December 29, 2023
That's a wrap for my character Lisa on Mike Cuenca's guerrilla film triology Boys About Town (shot - and story told - over the course of six years). Learn more here.
SOLD OUT "Mama Mama" Closing Weekend
December 10, 2023
It was beautiful to bring our run of Coin & Ghost's Mama Mama Can't You See to a close with our second consecutive sold out weekend! The audience response has been incredible and I will carry this experience and ensemble with me forever. You can read press here, find production photos here, and info here. Access the digital program here.
"Mama Mama" Returns from Break with SOLD OUT Weekend
December 3, 2023
Coin & Ghost's Mama Mama Can't You See has returned from the holiday break for our final two weekends! After a powerful start, press and the word is out; after three consecutive sold out performances this weekend, our closing weekend WILL sell out. Don't miss it! You can read press here and find tickets & info here. Access the digital program here. We must close December 10th.
"Mama Mama" Weekend Two & Press!
November 16, 2023
Coin & Ghost's Mama Mama Can't You See had an UNREAL Opening weekend of performances and received a Wow! review from StageSceneLA here, Stage Raw here,. Discover Hollywood here, and the Hollywood Progressive here. Find the Broadway World interview with Director Zachary Reeve Davidson here. Find information and buy tickets here. Access the digital program here. Performances run Thursdays-Sundays until December 10th.
"Our Divine Roots" Article & Photoshoot
November 16, 2023
"Mama Mama" Opens
November 10, 2023
Coin & Ghost's Mama Mama Can't You See begins its Pay What You Can first weekend of performances with a SOLD OUT Opening Night! You can learn more about this powerful piece by reading the Broadway World interview with Director Zachary Reeve Davidson here. Find information and buy tickets here. Access the digital program here. Performances run Thursdays-Sundays November 10th to December 10th.
"Say My Name" Film Poster Release
November 2, 2023
The poster has been released for Mariam Meliksetyan's documentary film Say My Name and features yours truly. The film explores the experiences of individuals whose names have been deemed "difficult" by western standards. Learn more about the film here and stay tuned for future screenings!
Best Comedy Actress UK Film Festival Nomination
October 20, 2023
I received my first ever individual acting nomination for Best Comedy Actress at the UK's The Funny Life Film Festival for my performance as Luciana in Live at the Porpentine! Our film took home the awards for Best Director - David Melville, Best Cinematography - William Lancaster, and received additional acting nominations for Brent Charles, Xavi Moreno, Bukola Ogunmola, and Tonya Kay. Learn more about the film here.
Began "Mama Mama" Rehearsals
October 2, 2023
Honored to announce I will be performing in Coin & Ghost's Mama Mama Can't You See. Mama Mama is a highly physical, sensual, funny, angry, and surreal meditation on modern warfare and the cost of telling a true story based on playwright Stan Mayer’s life as a U.S. Marine. Performances run Thursdays-Sundays November 10th to December 10th. You can learn more and purchase tickets here.
LA Theatre Summit
September 19, 2023
Center Theatre Group held the LA Theatre Summit at the Mark Taper Forum; an inspiring and unprecedented gathering in which local leaders and art makers in the Los Angeles theatre community had space to gather and discuss the state of theatre. I was honored on speak on behalf of the LA Anti-Racist Theatre Standards team, in addition to representing Blklst LA and Independent Shakespeare Co.
Began Final Phase of Filming "Boys About Town"
September 10, 2023
Mike Cuenca's guerrilla film Boys About Town (a film shot - and story told - over the course of six years) has entered its final phase. The film will debut in three parts sometime next year. Learn more here.
Armenian Film Festival "Amerikatsi" Premiere
September 6, 2023
It filled my spirit to join so many artists and leaders in the Armenian Community as a VIP guest at the first ever Armenian Film Festival. Armenian Film Society honored 100 years of Armenian filmmaking by kicking off the festival with the powerful film Amerikatsi directed by and starring Michael Goorjian. Get tickets to Amerikatsi here and the Armenian Film Festival which runs until September 10th, here.
"Anxious Hearts" Music Video
September 6, 2023
I appear in Satellite Citi's latest music video Anxious Hearts directed by Rosie Geozalian! Music is a powerful way to explore our shared struggles and anxiety is something so many folks struggle with. Watch the full video here and stream the single here. You can also hear Satellite Citi locally on the radio on KROQ!
"Midsummer" Closing Night!
September 3, 2023
Independent Shakespeare Co.'s production of A Midsummer Night's Dream and summer festival has come to a close! We welcomed roughly 2000 Angelenos to the closing night of our 20th season and it was magical in every sense; from our young fairies in the audience to our intermission dance parties that drew even more crowds - this was an unforgettable summer. Find production shots here and character shots here. Learn more about the summer festival here.
"A Midsummer Night's Dream" Previews Begin!
August 9, 2023
Independent Shakespeare Co.'s 20th summer season continues with A Midsummer Night's Dream! Performances run Wednesdays-Sundays until September 3rd! Learn more about the summer festival here.
"Julius Caesar" Closing Weekend!
July 26, 2023
Independent Shakespeare Co.'s Julius Caesar only has FIVE PERFORMANCES LEFT! You won't want to miss this wonderfully reimagined and intense production in which our audience takes center stage! A Midsummer Night's Dream begins August 9th! Performances run Wednesdays-Sundays at 7pm. Check out reviews here. Learn more about the festival here.
Corsets & Fabric Shoot
July 6, 2023
I reunited with my wonderful friend and collaborator Vincent Kirk for our fourth annual shoot! View the full set here.
Amot Chi Launch
June 30, 2023
It was an incredible gift to be the model for We Are Charmhouse's Amot Chi campaign which celebrates the agency and unapologetic pride of Armenian women by reclaiming our freedom of expression and rejecting the label of "amot". Photography by Christina Naguib, lighting by Daniel Nathan, styled by Connor Chaos, makeup by Jin, and film production by Melanin Studio. View the full set here.
AGBU Magazine Article
June 19, 2023
I am featured in AGBU Magazine's Armenian-ish article by Carolina Gazal as part of their June 2023 issue. Photo by Kristin Anahit Cass. I spoke about my identity, activism, and honoring my ancestors. You can read the digital issue here or pick up a hard copy.
Began Rehearsals with Indyshakes
June 6, 2023
Rehearsals for the Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival have officially begun! Julius Caesar begins performances July 5th and runs Wednesdays-Sundays at 7pm until July 30th. A Midsummer Night's Dream begins August 9th. Come celebrate our 20th season with us! Learn more about the festival here. Donate to my fundraiser here!
Indyshakes Annual Fundraiser
May 13, 2023
A Midsummer Saturday Night's Fever Dream, Independent Shakespeare Co.'s disco themed 2023 annual fundraising gala, was a blast but we are still a ways from our fundraising goal! Last year I raised $1,500 with my personal fundraiser, so let's match or beat that number this year! Donate to my fundraiser here!
"Advancing Equity Through the Arts and Humanities Act" reintroduced as H.R. 3239
May 11, 2023
The Advancing Equity Through the Arts and Humanities Act was reintroduced from the office of Congresswoman Barbara Lee as H.R. 3239! As one of the local theatre artists who co-authored the Bill, I am urging you to contact your representatives. You can read the Bill text here, press release here, and sign on as an endorser here.
"We Are All Armenian" Back in Stock and On Sale
May 11, 2023
After a SOLD OUT first print, We Are All Armenian is back in stock just in time for University of Texas Press' summer sale! Grab your copy which includes my essay Perspectives on Artsakh from a Black Armenian Angeleno and the works of so many brilliant Armenian writers at select sellers across the country or online here. Use the code "UTXSUMMER" for a 40% discount on hard copies and 50% discount on ebooks.
"SWANA Stories" Episode
April 18, 2023
It was an honor to be featured as a guest in the very first Season of the SWANA Stories podcast produced by Kayhan Azadi. I spoke about my identity and work decolozing my craft and organizing. You can stream my episode here.
Center Theatre Group "Going Pro"
April 15, 2023
What a joy it was to be back for the second year in the row at Center Theatre Group's Going Pro Fair. This year I led my own audition workshop for current and recent college graduates in person, which was a lovely change from last year's virtual panel. You can read the Broadway World announcement here and learn more here.
USC Closing Guest Lecture
April 3, 2023
I was asked to give the closing lecture of Dr. Shushan Karapetian's The Armenian Heritage course at USC! In this lecture I broke down contemporary narratives on inclusivity and activism both within and in solidarity with the Armenian community. I also recorded an episode of Language Therapy with Dr. K, so stay tuned for that episode's release.
"Musical Mondays" Performance in WeHo
April 3, 2023
What a gift to return to Musical Mondays for the first time since the pandemic! I performed a rendition of "Class" from Chicago that I *slightly* rewrote to be more topical as part of A Cabaret of Fools - A Musical Theatre Comedy Night produced by Henry Alexander Kelly. Learn more about MuMo here.
"Poets, Tea, & Pleasure" Performance
March 26, 2023
In a divergence from the political and identity centered poetry I often perform, I shared some personal love poems as a headlining poet at Poets, Tea, & Pleasure. This wonderful gathering is hosted by Kiayla at The Glendale Room on Artsakh Street and features both booked poets and a few open mic slots. Learn more here.
Community Action Update
March 15, 2023
Iambic Lab returns to Independent Shakespeare Co. in-person this year! Join us for four days of FREE programming at the ISC studio. I will be performing in the staged reading of Galatea by John Lyly on Feb. 24th and there will also be a screening of our feature film Live at the Porpentine: A Comedy of Errors (in which I play Luciana) on Feb. 26th. Learn more and reserve tickets here.
Iambic Lab at ISC
February 20, 2023
Iambic Lab returns to Independent Shakespeare Co. in-person this year! Join us for four days of FREE programming at the ISC studio. I will be performing in the staged reading of Galatea by John Lyly on Feb. 24th and there will also be a screening of our feature film Live at the Porpentine: A Comedy of Errors (in which I play Luciana) on Feb. 26th. Learn more and reserve tickets here.
"We Are All Armenian" Available for Purchase
February 18, 2023
It's an honor to have my piece Perspectives on Artsakh from a Black Armenian Angeleno published by University of Texas Press alongside so many brilliant and inspiring Armenian authors! You can now pick up your copy at select sellers across the country or order online here. Use the code "UTXM25" for a 25% discount.
Creative Vegas Shoot
February 3, 2023
I had a wonderful shoot with Las Vegas based photographer Alli Leiva-Topper as part of her Tarot series with other creative shots. Check them out here.
Performed spoken word, song at She Loves Collective Vigil
January 29, 2023
I had the honor of singing and performing poetry as part of the She Loves Collective “Shelter” installation's closing night vigil in honor of the 3,906 men AND women lost in the genocidal attack of 2020. You can still download my single "Scattered Arils" with proceeds now benefiting Armenian Food Bank here.
Signed Commercially with A3
January 25, 2023
Thrilled to announce I have signed commercially with A3 Artists Agency.
"Much Ado" at A Noise Within
January 20, 2023
I hopped on A Noise Within's production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing as the understudy for Hero. Much Ado runs February 5 - March 12th. Grab your tickets for this fun, fast paced production here.
"...Ladies & Gentlemen of Colour" SOLD OUT Closing
October 30, 2022
After a SOLD OUT weekend our workshop production of White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour (directed by Bruce Lemon Jr., written by me, and devised by our ensemble) has come to an end. The response has been overwhelming and powerful; I am eternally grateful to everyone who held space with us during this limited run. Follow our play's development and to contribute to our fundraiser here.
ISC Support Black Theatre Night
October 28, 2022
ISC will be hosting Support Black Theatre Night at this Friday's performance which will be followed by a talkback facilitated by Sydney Rogers and a reception with food and drink from local Black owned businesses Big Man Bakes, Say Cheese, and McBride Sisters. Learn more about SBT here and our production here.
"...Ladies & Gentlemen of Colour" Weekend #2
October 27, 2022
Word is out and tickets for White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour are going FAST! Our second and final weekend offers special post-show events. Friday will be Support Black Theatre Night and Saturday night's performance will be followed by a reception with the cast. Get your tickets before they are gone here.
Azad Archives Interview
October 26, 2022
Last year in September of 2021 I had the privilege of being interviewed by Araxie Cass for Azad Archives' Azad Sparks Series about my identity and organizing work within teh Armenian community. You can read the full article here.
"...Ladies & Gentlemen of Colour" Performances Begin!
October 20, 2022
Independent Shakespeare Co.'s White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour begins its limited run of 8 performances today! We run until October 30th Thurs-Sat at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. Learn more and contribute to our production here.
"...Ladies & Gentlemen of Colour" Workshop Tickets Are Live
October 2, 2022
The moment has arrived; Independent Shakespeare Co.'s workshop production of White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour will run for a limited engagement of 8 performances October 20-30th. This is an incredibly special project as I am playwright, devisor, and performer. Buy tickets and learn more here.
USC "Empower" Facilitator and Panelist
September 16, 2022
It was an honor to facilitate the Empower: Students, Arts, and Activism panel, mixer, and catalyst for USC students. This Arts in Action event was part of the University's Visions and Voices Initiative. Learn more about the event here.
"Macbeth" Closes with Stage Raw Recommendation
September 4, 2022
"Macbeth" Enters Third Weekend with Review
August 17, 2022
Macbeth continues our run Wednesdays through Sundays at 7pm until September 4th! Read our Stage and Cinema review here. Check out Grettel Cortes' production stills here and portraits shots here. Find Knight of the Burning Pestle reviews here and production stills here. Learn more about the festival and register here.
"Macbeth" Back for Weekend #2!
August 10, 2022
After a bloody first weekend of Macbeth performances, we are back Wednesdays through Sundays at 7pm until September 4th! Check out Grettel Cortes' production stills here and portraits shots here. Find Knight of the Burning Pestle reviews here and production stills here. Learn more about the festival and register here.
"Macbeth" Begins!
August 6, 2022
"Knight of the Burning Pestle" Closing Weekend
July 27, 2022
The beautiful joyride that is Knight of the Burning Pestle is coming to an end! Join us for our pre-show Faire this Saturday or any day this week! We must close on July 31st because Macbeth begins August 6th! Find reviews here and production stills here. Learn more about the festival and register here.
"Pestle" Stage Raw Recommended
July 24, 2022
Pestle received another wonderful review and is now Stage Raw Recommended! Martá½·n Hernández noted, "Mekertichyan and Morales evince a credible charisma as the young lovers". Pestle runs for one more week Wednesday-Sunday at 7pm until July 31st and is followed by Macbeth. Check out production stills by Grettel Cortes here. Learn more about the festival and register here.
"Pestle" Review & Performances
July 15, 2022
Pestle received a lovely review from Broadway World's Evan Henerson. Following this weekend, Pestle runs for two more weeks Wednesdays through Sundays at 7pm until July 31st and is followed by Macbeth. Check out production stills by Grettel Cortes here. Learn more about the festival and register here.
"Knight of the Burning Pestle" Second Week of Performances!
July 6, 2022
We had a wonderful first weekend of Pestle performances in Griffith Park and are back for our first full week of shows (and press opening!). Knight runs Wednesdays through Sundays at 7pm until July 31st and is followed by Macbeth. Check out my character portrait shots by Grettel Cortes here. Learn more about the festival and register here. Donate to my fundraiser here!
"Knight of the Burning Pestle" Begins!
July 2, 2022
Our first show of the summer, Knight of the Burning Pestle, has begun performances in Griffith Park! Pestle runs Wednesdays through Sundays at 7pm until July 31st and is followed by Macbeth. Learn more about the festival and register here. Watch the cast announcement here. Donate to my fundraiser here!
DTLA Shoot with Vincent Kirk
June 28, 2022
I had my 3rd annual summer shoot with my wonderful friend photographer Vincent Kirk! Photos from our shoots can be found here.
HyeBred Magazine Publication
June 20, 2022
My poem if we back each other up we can (re)turn mountains was published in HyeBred Magazine Issue #11 Proverbs. This piece is a meditation on the way our community often alienates both those who are not part of this community and those within our community who deviate from preconceived notions of what it means to “be Armenian”. Read the issue here.
Community Action Update Podcast
June 15, 2022
For this quarter's Community Action Update I interviewed local representative and award winning theatre artist Kristina Wong, ISC Board member Ebony Murphy-Root, and Aisha Kabia performs a speech from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Listen to the episode here!
Began Rehearsals for GPSF '22
June 6, 2022
"LATP" selected for the Marina Del Rey Film Festival
June 4, 2022
ISC Annual Fundraising Gala
May 21, 2022
ISC's 2022 fundraising gala was back in person with A Knight at Club Hecate, which successfully raised funds for the upcoming Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival. Contribute to ISC here!
SBT "Bright Half Life" Talkback
May 14, 2022
I assisted the lovely Sydney Rogers and represented Support Black Theatre in a moderated talkback of The Road Theatre's production of Tanya Barfield's Bright Half Life. Learn more about SBT here!
ISC Huntington Performance
May 11, 2022
I performed sections of Romeo & Juliet and broke down the text with my fellow ISC ensemble members Patrick and Daniel as part of Carson High School's Deep Learning Day at The Huntington Library! We had a wonderful and engaged group of 10th-12th grade students join us in the Garden Court.
Co-Authored Federal Arts Funding Legislation
April 28, 2022
UCLA Lecture
April 27, 2022
I had the pleasure of lecturing at UCLA once again as part of Professor Kane's UCLA VAPAE 20 class. This time I was joined by Jimmy Wu as we shared our experiences working with the arts in corrections and I led the students through a workshop and writing exercise.
Ancestor Portrait Series
April 24, 2022
For this year's Armenian Genocide Commemoration, I was able to share “Mamig and Babig” shot and edited by Kristin Anahit Cass as part of their Ancestor Portrait Series. For these portraits I recreated photos of my grandparents with images of our Artsakh behind me. View both photos here.
CTG Going Pro Fair
April 23, 2022
I spoke to current college students and recent graduates as part of Center Theatre Group's Going Pro Fair. This closing forum was titled Don't Dream It. Be it. and featured myself and Julyza Commodore as young professional game changers in the LA theater community and was moderated by David Stewart. Learn more about Going Pro 2022 here.
PCC Panel on Genocide and Resilience
April 18, 2022
This year marks 107 years since the start of the Armenian Genocide. It was a gift to hold space with a panel of incredible individuals as we explored the resilience of communities that have experienced genocide and political violence. The Disruption, Denial, and Innovation Panel was held from 12-2pm at Pasadena City College and sponsored by PCC Jan and the PCC ASA. Learn more here.
Finished First SBT Talk Forward
April 10, 2022
Support Black Theatre's cohort of Black women has been meeting as part of SBT's very first Talk Forward once a week for the last month. This series culminated in a viewing of Both And... at Boston Court Pasadena, after which I led a talkback with playwright and performer Carolyn Ratteray and Director Andi Chapman. Learn more about SBT here and get tickets here.
Devising Session #3 of ISC New Play Development
March 13, 2022
We wrapped up our final devising intensive for ISC's New Play Development White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour! You can learn more about the project and DONATE directly here.
"Live at the Porpentine" Weekend #1 and Virtual Lounge
March 12, 2022
"It is Earned" Commission from Invertigo Dance
February 28, 2022
I was commissioned by Invertigo Dance Company to write my poem titled It Is Earned in honor of Black History month as part of their Moving In Time series. This collaboration between poet, musician, and dancer also features the music of Diana Lynn and the movement of Bernard Brown. You can watch on vimeo here.
New "Live at the Porpentine" Trailer
February 23, 2022
Iambic Lab: Born from the Ensemble
February 20, 2022
After a full day of devising work, Sabra Williams, Patrick Batiste, Bukola Ogunmola, and myself spoke in a salon as part of this year's Iambic Lab. You can watch the full Borne From The Ensemble talk here. You can learn more about White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour and DONATE directly here. Register for our other Iambic Lab events here.
UCLA Lecture
February 16, 2022
It was an honor to guest lecture on my work as a teaching artist with incarcerated youth for Professor Kane's UCLA VAPAE 105 class.
Blklst Instagram Live
February 11, 2022
I had a wonderful time speaking with Blklst Co-Founder A'raelle Flynn-Bolden during the Name Your Monster Instagram Live event. the discussion was centered on naming harm within the Los Angeles theater community, and the Southern California Living Document I created as a means of accountability for said harm. Submit you account of harm here. You can watch the full Instagram Live talk here.
Register to Stream "Live at the Porpentine!"
February 11, 2022
One month from today you will have the opportunity to stream the final version of our feature film Live at the Porpentine. This was my first principal role in a feature, and I was blessed to share this journey with my ISC family. Register to stream weekends from March 11th-20th here.
Valentine Sweets Shoot
February 3, 2022
Completed Second New Play Development Devising Intensive
December 5, 2021
We closed out the second session of intensive devising for Indyshakes New Play Development project. To donate and learn more about this project devised by our Black ensemble members and currently titled White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour click here.
"Live at the Porpentine!" Premiere Screenings
November 12, 2021
Our feature film adaptation of Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors, Live at the Porpentine! will be presented at the ISC studio! Experience the film in our Porpentine set while enjoying costume and prop pieces and our open bar. Learn more and reserve tickets here.
Out of Print Ad
October 31, 2021
I shot an ad for Out of Print directed by Robert Arjoyan and featuring the legendary Vahe Berberian. View the ad here.
"In the Upper Room" Denver Center Reading at Boston Court
October 30, 2021
I had the pleasure of reading stage directions for the Denver Center's workshop reading of In the Upper Room at Boston Court. The reading and future 2022 production are directed by Gregg T. Daniel.
October Community Action Update
October 28, 2021
Filmed "Meadowlark Falls" On Location in Mt. Baldy
October 11, 2021
Meadowlark Falls is back! Our immersive holiday experience is back this holiday season and we filmed this year's installment on location in Mt. Baldy this year! Purchase your experience here by December 3rd!.
Named Director of Programs at Support Black Theatre
September 15, 2021
I have begun to work in a formal capacity with Support Black Theatre as their Director of Programs! It is an honor to work with an organization I love that is doing such wonderful work in our arts community. Follow SBT here.
BLM PAC Voiceover
September 14, 2021
I provided voiceover for the Black Lives Matter PAC's "Vote No On the Recall" ad, edited by Giovanni Solis. Watch the full ad here.
September Community Action Update
September 28, 2021
New REVERIE Campaign Launch
September 14, 2021
I am honored to be one of the faces of sustainable haircare brand Reverie's new campaign. Reverie is made with intention here in California! Shop Reverie here and stay tuned for more photos from the campaign launch.
Venice Beach Photo Shoot
September 13, 2021
I shot a lovely series with photographer Shiji Ulleri in Venice Beach. Check out the full set here.
"Collectathon" Reading
September 13, 2021
It was a joy to provide narration for my friend Henry Alexander Kelly's Pilot Script Collectathon. Learn more about the project and find the digital program here.
LA ARTS and BLKLST Launch!
September 8, 2021
I am honored to share what has been the culmination of a year and a half of difficult and traumatic work. The Los Angeles Anti- Racist Theatre Standards (LA ARTS) are now live and can be read here. I co-authored the standards with an incredible collective of predominantly BIPOC theatre artists. I am also a contributor to The BLKLST, which is the organization that will implement the standards and ensure theaters are held accountable. My living document of harm will now be housed by the BLKLST as well.
"The Tempest" Closing Night!
September 5, 2021
New Play Development Salon and Fundraiser
September 5, 2021
Join ISC ensemble members Sabra Williams, Brent Charles, Patrick Batiste, and myself before the closing night performance of The Tempest as we have a salon discussion exploring ISC's New Play Development project titled White People Do Not Know How to Behave at Entertainments Designed for Ladies and Gentlemen of Colour. Learn more about the project and DONATE here. Find information on the summer festival here.
Spectrum News 1 Interview
August 31, 2021
I was featured in a Spectrum News 1 segment about Independent Shakespeare Co.'s The Tempest. You can watch the segment here, and also read about ISC's hygiene kit drive with SELAH this summer which didn't make it into the segment. Reserve your tickets here. Find information on the summer festival here. View our digital playbill here.
August Community Action Update
August 27, 2021
My August Community Action Update is a special summer episode highlighting SELAH, the organization ISC has partnered with this summer to collect hygiene kits and supplies for our unhoused neighbors. I interview SELAH Co-Founder Cat Kim, who speaks about SELAH's inception and ways we can all make a difference in our communities. Listen on spotify here. Find links to take action here.
"The Tempest" Press & Opening
August 14, 2021
The Tempest has been featured in a number of articles including The New York Times. We were featured as an LA Times Best Bet for the Weekend in addition to their feature on the pandemic challenges we have faced and recent vandalism. The Tempest had our official press opening on August 14th. Tickets are FREE and available for reservation 7 days in advance of each performance. Reserve your tickets here. Find information on the summer festival here. View our digital playbill here.
"The Tempest" Begins Performances
August 7, 2021
Weekend 1 of GPSF Tickets to be Released!
July 30, 2021
Tickets for the first performance of Independent Shakespeare Co.'s The Tempest will be released Saturday July 1st at 10am! Tickets are free and become available for reservation 7 days in advance of each performance. Reserve your tickets here. Find information on the summer festival here. View our cast announcement here.
"Modern Taraz" Photo Shoot
July 21, 2021
I was beautifully photographed by Christina Wefki Naguib in a blend of traditional Armenian dress and modern style. The Taraz headdresses were custom made by Meri Kostanyan. Check out the set here.
"The Tempest" Cast Announcement
July 15, 2021
We began rehearsals of Independent Shakespeare Co.'s The Tempest earlier this week and have officially announced our cast! The Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival is still FREE, but due to COVID, we must take reservations for socially distanced pods. Space is extremely limited and tickets will be released for each performance 7 days in advance. Find information on the summer festival and reservations here. View our cast announcement here.
Womens' Theatre Festival Panelist Announcement
July 10, 2021
I am honored to be a featured panelist at the National Women’s Theatre Festival Convention 2021! The Big Changes & Resilience panel will be moderated by WTF Executive Artistic Director Johannah Maynard Edwards, explore how to dig deep, reexamine, redefine, and stand in your resilience in times of chaos, change, and social reckoning. The panel will be held July 22nd at 1pm EST. Register here.