In a groundbreaking development, Miami native Tarell Alvin McCraney, a luminary in the world of Theatre and Film, has been appointed as the artistic director for the Geffen Playhouse. McCraney, renowned for his Academy Award-winning screenplay for “Moonlight,” his Peabody Award-winning series “David Makes Man,” and his Tony Award-nominated play “Choir Boy,” takes the helm at the esteemed non-profit theater institution.
The announcement, made by the Geffen Playhouse’s Board of Directors, signifies a significant milestone in the theater’s history. McCraney steps into his role immediately, commencing work on shaping the theater’s 2024/2025 season while working in close collaboration with the theater’s Board of Directors.
As the new artistic director, McCraney’s artistic vision will encompass curating a vibrant repertoire of new works and reimagined classics. His mission is underscored by a commitment to innovative storytelling, fostering community engagement, and enhancing the overall audience experience. McCraney is poised to chart the strategic artistic direction for both the Geffen’s Gil Cates and Audrey Skirball Kenis Theaters, while also providing leadership to the theater’s artistic and production teams.
Adi Greenberg, Chair of the Board of Directors, expressed her excitement, saying, “We are thrilled to have Tarell Alvin McCraney join the Geffen Playhouse family as our new artistic director. As an award-winning writer, producer, and educator, he is a force of creativity and uniquely suited to lead our theater’s artistic vision. Together with Gil Cates, Jr., they are a powerhouse team who will embrace the evolution taking place in the industry, make bold, innovative choices, and ensure Geffen Playhouse is well-positioned for the future.”
Geffen Playhouse Executive Director/CEO Gil Cates, Jr., welcomed McCraney with enthusiasm, highlighting their longstanding association. McCraney’s journey with the Geffen began in 2014 with the West Coast premiere of “Choir Boy” at the Geffen’s Gil Cates Theater. This relationship continued to flourish with McCraney’s involvement in the Cast Iron Entertainment artist residency program, alongside luminaries such as Sterling K. Brown, Glenn Davis, Brian Tyree Henry, Jon Michael Hill, and André Holland.
In response to his appointment, McCraney reflected, “It’s an honor to take on the mantle of artistic leadership at Geffen Playhouse. My connection to the Geffen began with an introduction via Lower Depths Theater Ensemble in 2012 and continued through a production of Choir Boy, and into a residency with Cast Iron Entertainment. I see my role as continuing a legacy of exceptional artistry, reinvesting in the Geffen’s unique capability to nurture and support artists, build upon collaborative partnerships including with UCLA, and reach audiences that we share a community with across Los Angeles. I am excited to foster intimate innovation in performance, digging deep into our collective need for live connection here at Geffen Playhouse.”
Tarell Alvin McCraney’s extraordinary contributions to Film and Theatre have garnered widespread acclaim. The former African Heritage Cultural Arts Center and New World School of the Arts student is recognized for his celebrated trilogy, “The Brother/Sister Plays,” and his renowned “In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue,” which served as the basis for the Oscar-winning film “Moonlight.” McCraney’s work has been instrumental in advancing Black voices in theater and film, and his appointment as artistic director signals a powerful chapter in the Geffen Playhouse’s storied history.
