معرفی
Jessica Brater is an Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Montclair State University's College of the Arts. She coordinates the BA/MA in Theatre Studies and the Graduate Certificate in Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion & Social Change. Her affiliations include leadership roles in New Jersey Together, residencies at LaGuardia Performing Arts Center and Mabou Mines, and collaborations with Jersey City Theater Center, New Jersey Playwrights Lab, and Vanguard Theater.
Her research examines theatre as a tool for social justice, focusing on underrepresented groups and political advocacy. Key interests include feminist theatre, site-specific performance, and the relationship between theatrical techniques and social movements. She is currently authoring a book analyzing 21st-century advocacy campaigns through the lens of theatre.
Her directing portfolio includes socially engaged works like THE ART OF HIJAB, DAUGHTERS OF ANATOLIA, and protest performances addressing immigration policy. She founded the Brooklyn-based theatre company Polybe + Seats and has secured grants from the NEA, Brooklyn Arts Council, and others.
Awards and recognitions:
- Loving Leadership Award (Faith in New Jersey)
- 2022 NJ 11 Hero (Rep. Mikie Sherill)
- Outstanding Service Award (Montclair State University)
She holds a Ph.D. from CUNY Graduate Center, a B.A. from Barnard College, and is pursuing a Certificate in Contemporary Antisemitism Studies at ISGAP.
