Artistic Steering Committee
The Artistic Steering Committee was formed in 2022 to provide support to the Artistic Director, helping to bring in a wider range of perspectives, and to tell stories that better reflect the experiences of our theatre community. We had a chance to speak with Gaya Bin Noon, the Artistic Director of KWLT, and the chair of the committee.
Can you tell us about your journey with the theatre?
After attending KWLT shows for years, I officially became a member when I directed Ordinary Days in 2023. That same year, I was voted onto the Board of Directors at the AGM and joined several committees as a member at large. I’m currently the Artistic Director, chairing the Artistic Steering Committee, and also a member of Show Support.
What drew you to becoming the Artistic Director?
I wanted to get my “greasy little hands” involved in curating fun, engaging, and thought-provoking live theatre experiences for our community.
What’s your favorite part of working with this committee?
The Artistic Steering Committee plays a huge role in shaping KWLT’s season by selecting the shows we produce. Reviewing proposals from community members is incredibly fun, and it’s exciting to see all the creative ideas people bring forward. We also get to help guide the studio series pieces, which are more fluid creative pursuits that are shaped by the creators.
What’s a recent accomplishment of the committee that you’re most proud of?
We’re very proud of our inaugural New Works Festival. It gave local playwrights the chance to develop their work and provided a lower-intensity option for community members interested in acting but unable to commit to a full mainstage production.
What’s your biggest goal for the committee?
It’s important to us that KWLT’s productions reflect the interests, values, and diversity of our community. We actively work to encourage proposals from directors with unique visions, especially those incorporating principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Additionally, we want to engage folks with diverse life experiences to help evaluate these proposals and bring directors’ creative visions to life.
Who would make a great addition to your committee?
We’re looking for people with a range of life experiences and perspectives to help shape a season that reflects our community. Prior theatre production experience isn’t necessary—as long as you love theatre and enjoy attending shows, you would be a great fit!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
The theatre provides a unique space where we can share and experience the lives and stories of others in meaningful ways. It allows us to explore ideas, confront trauma, unravel mysteries, or glimpse a moment in history through the lens of a specific group of people. At KWLT, our intimate setting fosters deeply personal performances, offering a rare opportunity to delve into the art of stepping into someone else’s shoes.
The Artistic Steering Committee meets once a month and is always looking for new members. If you want to get involved or have any questions, please contact the Artistic Director at ad@kwlt.org. And don’t miss our upcoming season announcement event on May 20 & be among the first to learn what KWLT’s got planned for 2025–26!
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