‘Offscript‘ Podcast Spotlights New play and Immigrant Voices in Theater
Table of Contents
Chicago audiences will soon experience a new work by acclaimed playwright Kristoffer Diaz, as previewed in the latest episode of American Theatre‘s flagship podcast, “Offscript.” The episode, released August 14, 2025, delves into the creative process and current artistic landscape.
A New Play Takes Shape
The podcast features a conversation between managing editor Jerald Raymond Pierce, playwright Kristoffer Diaz (known for The Elaborate Entrance of chad Deity and Hell’s Kitchen), and director Dexter Bullard (whose credits include Gorgeous View, Grace, and Bug). Their discussion centers on Diaz’s upcoming play, Things With friends, set to premiere at the American Blues Theater on August 29th.
Diaz and Bullard intentionally remain tight-lipped about the play’s specifics,focusing instead on the dynamic between a director and writer and the challenges of creating art during turbulent times.
Pro Tip: Understanding the directorómico relationship is crucial for a successful production.
Amplifying Immigrant Voices
The episode also highlights the Summer 2025 issue of American Theatre, dedicated to the contributions of immigrant theatremakers. Digital editor Gabriela Furtado Coutinho and editor-in-chief Rob Weinert-kendt speak with Francisco Mendoza and Miriam Felton-Dansky, key contributors to the issue.
Mendoza served as a consultant and participant in a roundtable discussion exploring the diverse experiences of immigrant artists. Felton-Dansky authored a piece examining the difficulties immigrant artists face in obtaining visas, a challenge that has persisted even beyond the Trump administration.The conversation underscores the legal, political, cultural, and artistic complexities inherent in these narratives.
Did You Know? The United States offers several visa options for artists,but navigating the system can be incredibly complex and frequently enough requires legal assistance. The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information on these options.
Podcast Details and Access
Listeners can access the “Offscript” episode on various platforms, including spotify and Apple Podcasts.The episode is also available for direct download here. Feedback and suggestions can be sent to at@tcg.org.
| Key Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| August 14, 2025 | “Offscript” podcast episode released |
| August 29, 2025 | Things With Friends begins performances at american Blues Theater |
| Summer 2025 | American Theatre publishes issue on immigrant theatremakers |
American Theatre encourages support for it’s mission through membership in the Theatre Communications group (TCG), which provides access to the magazine and supports nonprofit arts journalism.
What aspects of the director-playwright relationship do you find most fascinating? And how can theatre continue to amplify the voices of immigrant artists?
Evergreen Context: The State of American Theatre
american theatre is currently undergoing a period of critically important change, grappling with issues of portrayal, accessibility, and financial sustainability. The rise of digital platforms and the increasing demand for diverse stories are reshaping the landscape. According to a 2023 report by the National endowment for the arts, nonprofit theatre organizations contribute billions to the U.S.economy annually (NEA, 2023). This underscores the vital role these organizations play in communities across the country.
frequently Asked Questions
- What is “Offscript”? “Offscript” is the flagship podcast of American Theatre magazine, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the world of theatre.
- Who is Kristoffer Diaz? Kristoffer Diaz is an award-winning playwright known for works like The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity and Hell’s Kitchen.
- What is the American Blues Theater? The American Blues Theater is a Chicago-based theatre company known for its commitment to ensemble work and new play advancement.
- What are the challenges faced by immigrant theatremakers? Immigrant theatremakers often encounter legal hurdles related to visas, as well as cultural and systemic barriers to access and opportunity.
- Where can I listen to the “Offscript” podcast? You can find “Offscript” on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the podcast’s official website.
We hope you enjoyed this insightful look into the world of theatre. Share this article with your friends and colleagues, and join the conversation in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and exclusive content.
