The Subtext: Matthew Paul Olmos Finds Comfort in Chaos
This month Brian talks to the Mexican American playwright about his educational path, his early years in New York, and his process for writing poetic plays.
Stories by Brian James Polak
The Subtext: Eric Simonson Is Still Hustling
This month Brian talks to the writer and director about his Midwestern roots, his writing journey, and his artistic collaborations.
The Subtext: TyLie Shider’s Rehearsal Dramas
This month Brian talks to a writer inspired by the music his parents made when he was young, as well as by the diverse biographies and interests of the playwrights he admires.
The Subtext: Charly Evon Simpson, Accomplished and Evolving
This month Brian talks to Charly Evon Simpson about discovering theatre, learning to be vulnerable, and becoming a playwright both on paper and in life.
The Subtext: Nathan Alan Davis’s Artistic Adventure
This month Brian talks to Nathan Alan Davis about growing up with performer parents and how his own parenting influences his work.
The Subtext: Nancy Garcia Loza Needs No Permission to Write
This month Brian joins playwright Nancy Garcia Loza at Chicago’s Understudy book shop to talk about writing, family, and holding on to memories.
The Subtext: MJ Kaufman at Heart, at Home
This month Brian talks to MJ Kaufman, the co-writer of ‘A Transparent Musical,’ about their evolving sense of home, their creative instincts, and their dog, Milkshake.
The Subtext: Kareem Fahmy’s Auteur Theory
Brian talks to the NYC-based theatremaker about the intersection of writing and directing, what his family thinks of his plays, and differences between the U.S. and his native Canada.
The Subtext: Jonathan Spector’s Eureka Moments
This month Brian talks to the Bay Area playwright about the writing process, battling imposter syndrome, and redefining success.
The Subtext: Alexandra Petri Writes Funny
The D.C. columnist and playwright talks about how writing is like making cotton candy, how ‘MILF Manor’ is like Greek drama, and how an editor can help you find the parade.
