daniel jelani ellis

daniel jelani ellis is a multidisciplinary artist rasied in Jamaica. His art practice includes performance-installation creation, playwriting, dub poetry, and acting. danjelani challenges colonial cultural authority by examining and exploring the ways this authority clashes, connects, and intersects with Afro-diasporic traditions and methodologies. His artistic work is Afrocentric and celebratory. danjelani is passionate about arts-based community organizing for social justice. As a Black queer immigrant he is committed to celebrating those of us who live within the margins. I live in Toronto where I work for Obsidian Theatre Company as the Metcalf Artistic Director Intern.  I also steer ad-hoc entity Groundwork Redux - an ever-evolving gathering of artists and projects - creating original art, performance, and community activations. www.groundworkredux.com 
 
Theatre credits include: as performer: The First Stone (New Harlem Productions, Buddies in Bad Times, GCTC), The Bridge (2b, Neptune, Obsidian) receiving a Merritt Award nomination for outstanding performance in a supporting role, Risky Phil (YPT), A Midsummer Night's Dream (Pacific Opera Victoria); as playwright and co-producer: speaking of sneaking (Why Not, Groundwork Redux) receiving five Dora Mavor Moore Award nominations including outstanding new play, outstanding production, and outstanding performer.