ABOVE: Paul Edward Wilt. Photo via American Stage.
ST. PETERSBURG | American Stage announced Aug. 26 that nonbinary artist Paul Edward Wilt will serve as the organization’s newly created associate artistic producer.
Wilt will work closely with Producing Artistic Director Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj, who joined American Stage last month. The two will “ensure the highest quality productions, creation of bold new works and support the professional reputation” of the theatre company, which is Tampa Bay’s longest running.
“Paul Edward Wilt brings with them a passion for music, art, storytelling, and activism,” Maharaj said in a statement. “They also have years of experience working in the New York and Regional Theater community. They deeply believe in using art as a catalyst for change and their core values are aligned with the mission of American Stage and what we stand for.”
Prior to American Stage, Wilt partnered with the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, NASA, The Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company, Yale University and other organizations. Their work in the industry has been celebrated by the British Broadcasting Company and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
“What attracted me to American Stage is that, true to its name, this is a theater that represents America,” Wilt explained. “Through the stories told, the outreach, education programs, and team members, I knew that as a nonbinary, LGBTQIA+ artist, administrator, and activist I would have an artistic home and safe space here to share art and provide safe spaces for all the communities American Stage serves now and into the future.”
The venture won’t be the first time the pair have worked together. Wilt previously served under Maharaj as the vice chair of the Equity in the Arts and Culture Committee for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)’s Brooklyn branch. They were also a member of the organization’s Next-Gen national leadership program, which provides advocacy training for young adults seeking to become the next generation of civil rights leaders.
“In addition to Paul’s many talents on and off the stage, they are a visionary arts administrator, extremely hard worker, and they are committed to celebrating and protecting the rights, cultures, and diverse stories of our global community,” Maharaj added. “Paul is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and the NAACP. They are not afraid to stand up for what is right.”
American Stage announced their 2021-2022 season last month, “For the Love of Theatre.” It includes “Around the World in 80 Days,” “School Girls; Or, the African Mean Girls Play,” “The Tempest,” “Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol” and more.
To purchase tickets and for more information about American Stage, visit AmericanStage.org.
