The Kilroys 3.0: Carrying Forward a Legacy of Change in American Theater
The Kilroys,a renowned group dedicated to amplifying the voices of playwrights underrepresented in the American theatre,recently welcomed its newest cohort – Kilroys 3.0. This incoming class isn’t just accepting a title; they’re stepping into a powerful legacy and charting a course for the future of inclusive theatre. Let’s explore what this transition means for them, and for the industry as a whole.
A Legacy of Becoming
For many of the new Kilroys, the organization represents a pivotal part of their artistic journey. Santiago Iacinti eloquently expressed this sentiment,sharing that they were “raised in the theatre by women and queer artists of color.” The Kilroys, for Iacinti, were a guiding light, and now being a member feels like a deeply meaningful “full-circle moment.”
This speaks to the profound impact the Kilroys have had on fostering a more diverse and equitable theatre landscape. It’s a testament to the organization’s long-term influence, nurturing artists and inspiring them to pay it forward.
Art, Activism, and courageous Change
Tanya Everett and Minita Gandhi are eager to blend artistic expression with direct activism. Gandhi envisions creating ”courageous and fruitful change for the world” through their work. Everett echoes this, stating her goal as a theatremaker is to “influence the culture, to change hearts and minds.”
They see their role as Kilroys as an prospect to serve marginalized artists and communities, building on the organization’s history as a collective of “artivists.”
Humor, Chutzpah, and Challenging the Status Quo
Rosie Glen-Lambert brings a vital ingredient to the mix: a sense of humor.She believes “radical change is best served with a sense of humor,” and emphasizes the importance of bravery in challenging inequity. The Kilroys have always been known for their boldness, and Glen-Lambert is excited to continue that tradition.
Their focus? Pointing out where the theatre industry is failing to support gender minorities, with a healthy dose of “chutzpah.”
Ensuring Continuity and Building on the Foundation
Nikki DiLoreto highlights the significance of the Kilroys’ continued existence. Maintaining an organization across multiple generations requires dedication and effort. Each class plays a crucial role in ensuring the Kilroys’ survival and impact.
A Shift in Focus: Illuminating the Unknown
Founding member Sheila Callaghan acknowledges that while progress has been made, the work isn’t finished. However, the nature of that work is evolving. The new class is tasked with exploring “the gaps” – areas where support and depiction are lacking.
Callaghan emphasizes that this isn’t about retracing familiar paths. It’s about venturing into uncharted territory, bravely navigating uncertainty, and shining a light on what remains hidden.
The Kilroys’ strength lies in their adaptability.This new cohort will leverage their unique skills and perspectives to address the challenges ahead, relentlessly interrogating the ”dark” spaces within the industry.
Daniella Ignacio, a writer, theatre artist, and musician based in Washington, D.C., is a contributing editor of this magazine.
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