Irish Repertory Theatre and Ireland's Fishamble: The New Play Company's have joined forces to create the Transatlantic Commissions Program, which has already commissioned four Black Irish artists and writers of color for the inaugural group. Felispeaks (Felicia Olusanya), Kwaku Fortune, Jade Jordan, and CN Smith will create new works over the next year under the mentorship of Obie Award winner and Pulitzer Prize finalist Dael Orlandersmith to be presented in public readings in early 2023.
The program, the first collaboration between Irish Rep and Fishamble, aims to address the historic marginalization and inequalities within the canon, particularly in Irish theatre. Public readings of the new works will be held by Fishamble in Dublin, Ireland and by Irish Rep in New York City.
Speaking on the program's transatlantic approach to amplifying underrepresented voices, Orlandersmith said in a statement "I am thrilled to be a part of the Diaspora of new work and new voices." The program is an effort at creating an arts industry "more reflective of Ireland in all its diversity," shared Maureen Kennelly, Director of The Arts Council in Ireland, in an adjoining statement.
To learn more, visit IrishRep.org.
