As a director, my work is a deliberate departure from traditional theatrical norms, embracing hyperrealism and authenticity to illuminate the nuanced experiences of everyday people and their struggles. Taking inspiration from filmmakers like Robert Bresson and Chantal Akerman, and theatremakers like Katie Mitchell and Milo Rau, my work focuses on the minute, often overlooked aspects of human existence.

This is reflected in the plays that I choose to direct. Whether classical or contemporary, the plays I work on attempt to provide a platform for us to understand the political underpinnings of our society through the lens of the everyday person’s life, forsaking conventional dramatic structures in favor of a more organic, action-driven narrative.

When working with actors, I am committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. I try to reject traditional theatrical hierarchical structures in favor of running a rehearsal room as a community, where each participant is a vital contributor to the creative process — where we all work toward the goal of fulfilling a vision for a piece. I function from a place of inquiry, encouraging actors to explore and follow their impulses. By asking questions rather than imposing rigid directives, I attempt to enable actors to bring their authentic selves into the work, enriching the overall production and ensuring a genuine and dynamic performance.

By creating theatre that is both politically charged and deeply human, I aim to inspire a greater understanding of the world that we live in and how it affects each and every one of us.

As a playwright, my creative vision is also centered on elevating the struggles of everyday people and rejecting theatrical norms. My writing is characterized by thorough research and meticulous detail, aimed at offering specific critiques of capitalism and society. Through my writing, I seek to bolster consciousness and deepen the understanding of capitalism's detrimental impacts, while providing comfort to the everyday person, allowing them to feel seen and heard amidst the often dehumanizing forces of modern society.

By highlighting systemic issues and fostering a sense of empathy, my plays strive to spark conversations about the need for change and challenge audiences to reject nihilism, embracing the possibility for change.

Moreover, my work is primarily written with young people in mind. I believe in the power of youth to drive change and build a new world. By crafting plays that resonate with younger generations, I hope to inspire them to see themselves as active participants in shaping the future. My plays provide a platform for young voices, encouraging them to express their ideas, challenge injustices, and envision a society that values human dignity and collective well-being.

My adaptation of An Enemy of the People, which I also directed, closed at The Den Theatre in Wicker Park in May after a successful run. Find out more information below.

I am also currently in the development stage of my second full-length play, In Pursuit Of, which is loosely inspired and based on Fyodor Dostoevsky’s masterpiece, Crime & Punishment. I’m also in development for a screenplay, Helen Lapinsky and a one woman show.

For more information on my plays, screenplays, and other writings, you can reach out to me at: zoeesoteres@gmail.com