What does it mean to you to be named a Lin-Manuel Miranda Fellow by the Lin-Manuel Miranda Family Foundation

Being named a Lin-Manuel Miranda Fellow by the Lin-Manuel Miranda Family Foundation is an absolute honor. Lin-Manuel is one of the most talented entertainers of our time, and to be recognized by him for my work is incredibly humbling and validating. As an artist, it’s often challenging to gauge whether you’re on the right track or doing your best work. You tend to focus on what didn’t go right or the opportunities you missed. Being named a Fellow put many of those doubts to rest, affirming that I’m on the right path.

The fellowship is not just an honor but a continuous source of inspiration and support. It provides an incredible opportunity to connect with other talented artists and collaborate on exciting projects. Additionally, being the first Arab and Palestinian to receive this recognition feels like a significant step towards greater representation. It’s a powerful reminder that our voices and stories are being heard and valued in the industry.

What’s next? 

Exciting things are on the horizon. A new musical I composed for, Under The Sheet, about killer maids in the 80s, is having its world premiere at IRT Theatre in August. The music is the first of its kind, fusing Hip-Hop, Rap, Mariachi, and Aztec music with Broadway musical elements. Additionally, I composed music for Chicana Legend, a play that is having a run at the Lin-Manuel Summit.

AREA D is in negotiations for a run at Joe’s Pub/The Public Theater, and I’m embarking on an NYC music tour from June to August, with shows at The Sultan Room, Pete’s Candy Store, Baby’s Alright, Funoon, The Bowery Electric, and more. Next week, a film I led called Tired will screen at BAM Cinema. A series I’m in, The Arab Olympics, is launching soon, and I’m in negotiations for an exciting feature film project that I can’t speak about publicly yet—so stay tuned!