Tony-Nominated Director Known for "Fat Ham" & "Buena Vista Social Club"; Associate Artistic Director at The Public Theater in New York City

New York, NY, USA
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Saheem Ali Biography

Saheem Ali is a respected figure in the theatrical world, known for his role as the Associate Artistic Director at The Public Theater in New York City. His work spans over a decade, with notable directing roles in several acclaimed plays. Dramas such as "Marisol" by José Rivera at Barnard College and "A Lesson from Aloes" by Athol Fugard at Juilliard School, have been under his expert guidance. Additionally, Ali's adaptation of "Richard II" in 2020, co-produced by The Public Theater and WNYC-FM, featured renowned actors like André Holland, Lupita Nyong'o, and others. He received a Tony nomination for Best Direction of a Musical for his work on "Buena Vista Social Club."

Recognition for Ali's work extends beyond his directorial prowess, with prestigious nominations for a 2022 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Director of a Play and a 2022 Drama League Award for Outstanding Direction of a Play. His efforts to contemporize and expand Shakespeare's plays have been recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts. Moreover, Ali's 2022 production "Fat Ham" by James Ijames was honored with the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, further cementing his place in the industry.

Ali's dedication to the arts is also evident in his directorial contributions to various theaters and productions. He has been involved in regional premieres such as Colman Domingo's "DOT" at Detroit Public Theatre and has directed plays reviewed by esteemed publications like The New York Times and Variety. His work also includes productions like "Nollywood Dreams," "Fires in the Mirror," and "Shipwreck" at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 06/03/2025.

Saheem Ali Videos

Saheem Ali and Alexa Smith on Theater and Community | The Public Theater

Saheem Ali and Alexa Smith on Theater and Community | The Public Theater

Get to know our Associate Artistic Directors Saheem Ali and Alexa Smith! The artistic duo reflect on Black History Month, their collaboration, their...

The Word His Stage: A Conversation with Saheem Ali

The Word His Stage: A Conversation with Saheem Ali

  • How do I book Saheem Ali to speak at my event?

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  • What topics does Saheem Ali speak about?

    Saheem Ali is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Diversity & Inclusion, Entertainment, Performing Arts, Workshop
  • Where does Saheem Ali travel from?

    Saheem Ali generally travels from New York, NY, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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Saheem Ali is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Saheem Ali for your event is available upon request. Saheem Ali generally travels from New York, NY, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Wendee Lee Curtis, Da'Vinchi, Adepero Oduye, Daveed Diggs and Jonathan Groff. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Saheem Ali for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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