Hana S. Sharif, C’2000, believes the way to serve the universe and fulfill one’s purpose is by serving humanity. Theater, she believes, is the one art form that has the possibility and mandate to serve and to help changes lives.
“There is no other art form that allows us to question, challenge and serve than theater,” she said. Sharif, a playwright, director and producer, has been appointed the next artistic director of The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and will hold the title of Augustin Family Artistic Director.
She replaces Steven Woolf who has served in the role for more than 30 years; however the Spelman alumna is not intimidated by succeeding Woolf. She sees this new journey as an opportunity to continue in her commitment of uplifting humanity.
“The work I do, I see it as something that has been appointed,” she said in a previous interview. “I accept that responsibility with great love and compassion.”
An Impressive Background in Theater
Sharif has worked as an artistic leader, director, playwright, and producer. She began her professional career in 2003 as an entry-level artistic assistant at
Hartford Stage. Within seven years she rose to become associate artistic director and served as the director of new-play development.
In 2012, Sharif became the program manager at
ArtsEmerson, and in 2014, she became the associate artistic director at
Baltimore Center Stage, where she directed acclaimed productions of
"Pride and Prejudice," "The Christians," and "Les Liaisons Dangereuses."
While at Baltimore Center Stage, Sharif strengthened community engagement, produced multiple world and regional premieres and guided the theater through a multi-million dollar building renovation and rebranding effort.
Sharif obtained her MFA from the University of Houston and her B.A. from Spelman College.