About
Gyllian Raby is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Dramatic Arts at Brock University, affiliated with the Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts. With a career spanning professional directing in Canada and the U.S., she transitioned to full-time academia at Queen’s University before joining Brock in 2001. Her work focuses on devised theatre, audience dynamics, and social justice through performance. She led the SSHRC-funded Commotion project (2005–2011), producing youth-driven plays and publishing research on collaborative storytelling. Notable creative works include adaptations of The Suicide (2023) and co-devised pieces for festivals. She remains active in theatre as a dramaturge, artistic producer, and director of Metamorphoses (2025).
Her affiliations include the Social Justice Research Institute and the President’s Advisory Committee on Human Rights. Collaborations with the Philosophy Department and the Kristeva Circle reflect her belief in theatre as “Philosophy on its feet.” She has held roles with Compagnie Zuma Puma, Stolen Theatre, and others, touring internationally and across Canada. Awards include recognition for Commotion and SSHRC funding.
Gyllian Raby’s research integrates interdisciplinary approaches to theatre, emphasizing group dynamics and audience engagement. Her creative works span adaptations, original scripts, and collaborative projects, showcasing a dedication to social justice themes and innovative performance practices.
