In the realm of storytelling, few individuals have managed to bridge theatre, film, literature, and creative consulting as seamlessly as Huzir Sulaiman. A Malaysian-born playwright, director, and educator, Huzir has left an indelible mark on the arts, using his creative vision to craft narratives that provoke thought, challenge perspectives, and inspire change. His ability to transform complex ideas into accessible human stories has earned him widespread recognition, making him a pioneering figure in the literary and performing arts world.
Huzir Sulaiman: The Making of a Creative Luminary
Born on June 8, 1973, Huzir Sulaiman displayed an early affinity for storytelling. He pursued higher education at Princeton University, where he honed his craft and won the prestigious Bain-Swiggett Poetry Prize. This strong literary foundation would later shape his unique voice as a playwright and director. His global perspective, enriched by his experiences in Malaysia, Singapore, and the United States, has allowed him to weave diverse cultural narratives into his work.
A Trailblazing Theatre Career
Huzir Sulaiman co-founded Checkpoint Theatre, where he serves as Joint Artistic Director. His dedication to the stage has seen him direct critically acclaimed productions such as:
- Thick Beats for Good Girls (2018)
- FRAGO (2017)
- The Good, the Bad and the Sholay (2015, 2011)
- Atomic Jaya (2013, 1998) – a satirical take on Malaysia’s nuclear ambitions
- City Night Songs (2012)
- #UnicornMoment (2014)
His works have not only captivated local audiences but have also been translated into German, Japanese, Polish, Indonesian, and Mandarin, highlighting their global appeal. His contributions to theatre earned him a Best Director nomination at the 2012 Life! Theatre Awards, further cementing his status as a visionary in the field.
Academic Contributions and Mentorship
Beyond the stage, Huzir Sulaiman has made significant contributions to academia. As an Adjunct Associate Professor at the National University of Singapore (NUS), he has mentored aspiring playwrights and storytellers, imparting his deep knowledge of narrative construction and theatrical expression. He has also taught at New York University Tisch Asia, Nanyang Technological University, and the School of the Arts, Singapore. His impact extends beyond his own productions, shaping the next generation of storytellers.
Beyond Theatre: A Creative Consultant and Innovator
Huzir’s creativity is not confined to the stage. He leads Studio Wong Huzir, a creative consultancy that has undertaken high-profile projects, including serving as Creative Director for the observation deck on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa. His storytelling expertise has also been utilized in film, most notably in writing the screenplay for the Malaysian movie Dukun.
Additionally, his journalistic voice has been heard in The Star, The Straits Times, and The Huffington Post, where he has penned thought-provoking essays and commentary on culture, politics, and the arts. He also played a pivotal role in publishing POSKOD.SG, an online magazine dedicated to Singaporean society and culture.
A Legacy Rooted in Advocacy and Storytelling
Huzir Sulaiman’s passion for impactful storytelling runs deep in his lineage. His father, Haji Sulaiman Abdullah, was a distinguished lawyer and former Malaysian Bar Council president. His mother, Hajjah Mehrun Siraj, was a law professor and a Commissioner with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia. His grandmother, Khatijun Nissa Siraj, was a women’s rights activist, shaping Huzir’s appreciation for narratives that drive societal change.
Married to Claire Wong, a fellow director, actor, and lawyer, Huzir continues to inspire through his works while residing in Singapore as a permanent resident.
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