QUICK FACTS
Date of Birth
1982
Beirut, Lebanon
Place of Birth
Why Featured?
Ismail Khalidi is celebrated for his significant contributions to theater, particularly through his plays that often explore Palestinian history, culture, and politics. His works are known for their depth and ability to present complex narratives, making him a key figure in Palestinian-American literature.
BRIEF BIO
Ismail Khalidi is a Palestinian-American playwright, poet, and performer known for his compelling plays that delve into the Palestinian experience and broader political and cultural themes. Raised in Chicago, he has written, directed, performed, and taught internationally, showcasing his diverse talents in the arts.
LAST UPDATED
DATE
Monday, January 26, 2026
MAJOR MILESTONES
Key dates & turning points
1982: Born in Beirut, Lebanon to Palestinian parents.
2005: Graduated with a B.A. from Macalester College.
2009: Received his M.F.A. in Dramatic Writing from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts...See More
2010: His play 'Tennis in Nablus' premiered at the Alliance Theater.
2015: Co-edited 'Inside/Outside: Six Plays from Palestine and the Diaspora'.
CONTRIBUTIONS
What they did, and why it matters
Playwriting: Authored several plays including 'Tennis in Nablus,' 'Truth Serum Blues,' 'Foot,' 'Final Status,' 'Sabra Falling,' and a co-adaptation of 'Returning to Haifa.'
Awards and Recognition: His play 'Tennis in Nablus' received acclaim and awards, exploring the Palestinians' 1936-39 revolt against British Colonial rule.
Editorial Work: Co-edited 'Inside/Outside: Six Plays from Palestine and the Diaspora,' contributing significantly to the field of Palestinian and diaspora literature.
Academic Contributions: Served as a Many Voices Fellow at the Playwrights Center in Minneapolis and an Emerging Writers Fellow at the New York Theater Workshop.
International Influence: His work has been produced and read at theaters and universities around the world, showcasing the global impact of his literary and theatrical contributions
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Last updated
Jan 26, 2026
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