About the Program

Beginning in 2023, Keen Company has become the new Off-Broadway home of the long-running DirectorFest program, presented in partnership with the Drama League. DirectorFest showcases two early career directors through an evening of contemporary theater, allowing patrons to see each director’s unique creativity and perspective and experience a first look at the future of the field.

In 2023, Keen Company launched a new partnership with the Drama League and became the Off-Broadway home of the long-running DirectorFest program.

The program begins with a two year mentorship process in which Keen’s Artistic Director advises two early career directors on working in NYC. Directors are chosen in collaboration with the Drama League Stage Directing Fellowship. The partnership culminates in an Off-Broadway run of two contemporary plays, highlighting each director’s unique creativity and perspective. DirectorFest is designed to showcase rising talent in the industry and allow patrons to experience a first look at the future of the field.

The 2024 DirectorFest featured work directed by Nadia Guevara and Ibi Owolabi. The next DirectorFest will take place in 2026 with directors Zoë Adams and Irvin Mason, Jr.