Nubia Monks

Nubia Monks serves as Adjunct Faculty at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), bringing extensive professional experience as an actor, playwright, and educator to her academic role. Her career spans major theater institutions including the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, The La Jolla Playhouse, The Old Globe, and The Guthrie Theater, establishing her as a significant figure in contemporary American theater.

Monks' creative practice centers on theatrical performance and original playwriting, with a focus on developing new works that explore cultural narratives. Her play "Hands of Color" premiered at Atlanta's Synchronicity Theater and received critical acclaim, while her current fellowship at the Playwrights' Center supports the creation of innovative theatrical pieces through dedicated writing and development time.

Her artistic achievements have been recognized with prestigious honors:

• Suzi Bass Award for Outstanding World Premiere (for "Hands of Color")
• Finalist for the 2023 Royer Playwriting Excellence Award
• Jerome Fellowship at the Playwrights' Center (2023-2025 cohort)

Monks actively contributes to theater education while maintaining a robust professional performance schedule, including upcoming appearances in "A Walless Church" at Pillsbury House + Theatre. Her fellowship provides crucial support for emerging playwrights, reflecting her commitment to advancing theatrical arts through both creation and mentorship.