Lavina Jadhwani is a name that resonates powerfully in the world of theatre. As a Chicago-based director, adaptor, and activist, she has carved out a remarkable career that bridges the gap between Eastern and Western canons, bringing timeless texts to life with a fresh and dynamic perspective.
Lavina Jadhwani’s work is a testament to the power of language-driven plays and the importance of inclusive storytelling in today’s cultural landscape.
Lavina Jadhwani: A Journey Through Language and Storytelling
Lavina Jadhwani’s affinity for heightened language texts has guided her career, allowing her to explore and adapt works from a wide range of cultural and historical backgrounds. Her adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol premiered at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis in 2021, where it was met with critical acclaim and is set to remain a staple for years to come.
This adaptation is just one example of how Lavina Jadhwani breathes new life into classic stories, making them relevant and accessible to modern audiences.
Her repertoire is vast and varied. From the ancient Indian epic Shakuntala, presented at the Goodman Theatre’s FutureLabs and developed through the OSF Writers Group, to The Secret Garden, which earned a spot as a semi-finalist at the O’Neill National Playwrights Conference, Lavina’s works are as diverse as they are compelling.
Lavina Jadhwani’s solo performance piece, The Sitayana, based on the Hindu epic The Ramayana, showcases her ability to distill complex narratives into engaging and thought-provoking theatre.
Directing with Vision and Purpose
Lavina Jadhwani’s directing credits span some of the most prestigious theatres in the United States. She has directed productions at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the Guthrie Theater, Mixed Blood Theatre, PlayMakers Repertory Company, the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Asolo Repertory Theatre, the Gift Theatre, the Neo-Futurists, Silk Road Rising, Teatro Vista, and Rasaka Theatre Company, where she served as Artistic Director for seven years.
Lavina Jadhwani’s ability to craft visually and emotionally impactful productions has earned her a reputation as a visionary director with a deep understanding of her craft.
A Stellar Educational Background
Lavina’s extensive training and education have played a crucial role in shaping her career. She holds a BFA in Scenic Design and an MA in Arts Management from Carnegie Mellon University, as well as an MFA in Directing from The Theatre School at DePaul University.
Her dedication to her craft is further exemplified by the numerous fellowships she has received, including the OSF’s Phil Killian Directing Fellowship, the O’Neill/NNPN’s National Directors Fellowship, the Drama League’s Classical Directing Fellowship, and fellowships from SDCF, Old Globe, and Victory Gardens.
Championing Inclusivity and New Voices
Beyond her work on stage, Lavina Jadhwani is a tireless advocate for inclusivity and new voices in theatre. She serves on the board of the National New Play Network and the Chicago Inclusion Project, organizations that promote diversity and innovation in the arts.
Additionally, Lavina Jadhwani volunteers with Unlock Her Potential, a national mentorship program that supports women of color in achieving their professional goals.
Recognitions and Personal Passions
Lavina’s contributions to theatre and her community have not gone unnoticed. She is a proud alumna of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, where she received the show choir’s Bob Fosse Choreography Award and the drama club’s lifetime achievement award.
Her critical writing has been featured on platforms like HowlRound and Rescripted, and her insights are regularly shared in classrooms across the country, inspiring the next generation of theatre-makers.
In her free time, Lavina volunteers with the Masonic Association of Service and Therapy Dogs, highlighting her commitment to service and community beyond the world of theatre.
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