معرفی
Will Power serves as Associate Professor of Theater & Performance Studies at Occidental College, appointed to the tenure-track faculty in 2020 following earlier engagements as G. William Hume Fellow (2009) and visiting professor (2011). An internationally renowned playwright, performer, and lyricist, he is celebrated as one of the pioneers of hip-hop theater, with productions at Lincoln Center, The Public Theater, Sydney Opera House, and venues across Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America.
Power's research focuses on verse drama and classical adaptations, exploring connections between traditional forms like Shakespeare and Greek theater with contemporary expressions including hip-hop. His teaching philosophy emphasizes making historical works relevant to modern audiences, examining how iambic pentameter relates to hip-hop verse and how African American folk tales constitute their own classical tradition.
His recent theatrical works demonstrate remarkable range across genres and audiences, from children's theater pieces to serious historical dramas. The production history shows increasing institutional recognition, with works premiering at major regional theaters and receiving critical acclaim including a New York Times Critic's Pick designation for Seize the King.
Awards received include:
- Doris Duke Artist Award
- Lucille Lortel Award
- United States Artist Prudential Fellowship
- 2020 Elliot Norton Award for Outstanding New Script (Detroit Red)
- NYFA Award
Power brings decades of professional experience to his teaching, having worked extensively as a practitioner before entering academia. He teaches courses including 'Black Arts Movement' and 'Freak the Classics,' emphasizing student voice development across artistic, spiritual, and human dimensions. His current work includes directing virtual performances of Romeo and Juliet while continuing to develop new commissioned pieces.
