Actor
Director
Writer
Educator
As a biracial, non-binary, Muslim American, I've often felt the pressure to simplify my existence for the comfort of others, and the loneliness that comes from never getting to see my whole identity reflected in art and media. The inability to fit into one neat little box and the realization I don't have to has inspired my interdisciplinary art practice as an actor, writer, director, educator, and community advocate.
My artistic mission is to:
1. Expand contemporary art that explores the cross-section of multiple identities, focusing on biracial representation, modern Muslim stories, and centering South East Asian & SWANA communities.
2. Empower artists of color to lead their own narratives & create paths to production outside of predominantly white institutions
3. Upend traditional artistic hierarchies and redistribute power for a uniquely collaborative art-making process
Instructor at Black Box Acting
Program Manager at The Chicago Inclusion Project
Adjunct Professor at The Theatre School at DePaul
Represented by Paonessa Talent Agency
Upcoming/Recent
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Dark Matter - Apple TV
Mara McHenry
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HALF - Short Film
Written and Directed by Arti Ishak, produced by Zaxie Films
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Closure - ReOrient Festival
Written by Arti Ishak, Directed by Susannah Martin
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POTUS - Steppenwolf Theatre Company
Written by Selina Felinger, Directed by Audrey Francis
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Hatefuck - First Floor Theatre Company
Written by Rehana Lew Mirza, Directed by Arti Ishak
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Same Sects! - Haven Theatre
Written by Paul Michael Thomson, Directed by Arti Ishak