معرفی
TJ Young is an Associate Professor of Dramaturgy at Carnegie Mellon University's School of Drama, joining the institution in 2021. A Texas-born playwright and dramaturg based in Pittsburgh, he serves as co-representative for the Dramatists Guild – Pittsburgh region and specializes in New Play Development while co-chairing the School of Drama Awards Ceremony.
Education:
- 2017: MFA in Dramatic Writing, Texas State University
- 2010: BA in English, University of Texas - San Antonio
Young's research centers on playwriting and dramaturgical practices, with emphasis on developing new theatrical works through workshops and festival frameworks. His expertise spans contemporary American theater, dramatic literature analysis, and mentorship of emerging playwrights within academic and professional settings, notably through the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival where he chairs Region 2's New Play Program.
His creative output demonstrates consistent engagement with new play development, evidenced by nationally recognized works spanning comedy, drama, and experimental short forms. These plays frequently explore contemporary social themes while adhering to rigorous structural innovation, reflecting his dual role as practitioner and educator in advancing American theater.
Key awards include:
- Harold and Mimi Steinberg Award Winner (2017) for "No. 6"
- Harold and Mimi Steinberg Distinguished Achievement Award (2018) for "Lyon’s Den"
- John Cauble Short Play Award Regional Finalist (2016) for "Ruby’s Baby Blue"
- John Cauble Short Play Award Regional Finalist (2017) for "Hell is Empty"
- L. Arnold Weissberger New Play Award Finalist (2023) for "Sperm Donor Wanted"
- Ken Ludwig Playwriting Scholarship (2017)
- Spotlight Artist, Throughline Theatre Company (2019)
As an educator, Young mentors playwrights through Carnegie Mellon University and the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival's Playwriting Intensive, teaching regional and national workshops that bridge academic training with professional theater practices. His service roles demonstrate sustained commitment to developing theatrical talent and advancing new works within institutional frameworks.
Young actively contributes to theater communities through his Dramatists Guild representation and leadership in the School of Drama's awards program, fostering collaborative networks between Pittsburgh's professional theater scene and CMU's academic environment while promoting emerging voices in contemporary playwriting.
