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Portrait of Ismail Khalidi

Ismail Khalidi

Prolific Palestinian-American Playwright

Born
1982
Born in
Beirut, Lebanon
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Why Ismail is here

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.

Their story

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.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Ismail’s path.

  1. 1982

    Born in Beirut, Lebanon to Palestinian parents.

  2. 2005

    Graduated with a B.A. from Macalester College.

  3. 2009

    Received his M.F.A. in Dramatic Writing from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts.

  4. 2010

    His play 'Tennis in Nablus' premiered at the Alliance Theater.

  5. 2015

    Co-edited 'Inside/Outside: Six Plays from Palestine and the Diaspora'.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Playwriting

    Authored several plays including 'Tennis in Nablus,' 'Truth Serum Blues,' 'Foot,' 'Final Status,' 'Sabra Falling,' and a co-adaptation of 'Returning to Haifa.'.

  2. Awards and Recognition

    His play 'Tennis in Nablus' received acclaim and awards, exploring the Palestinians' 1936-39 revolt against British Colonial rule.

  3. Editorial Work

    Co-edited 'Inside/Outside: Six Plays from Palestine and the Diaspora,' contributing significantly to the field of Palestinian and diaspora literature.

  4. 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.

  5. 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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