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Speaking in Draft

iPhoto caption: Headshot of Njo Kong Kie. Photo by Tam Chi Chun.

For composer Njo Kong Kie 楊光奇, the word ‘artist’ is a complicated label

At the ping pong table, eating pastries that Njo had thoughtfully laid out, I listened as this artist reflected on the back and forth of a career that’s bounced between multiple genres and disciplines. 

By Nathaniel Hanula-James / Nov 11, 2025

How three arts professionals navigate the daunting world of fundraising and development

With these questions in mind, I invited a trio of experts to share advice, geared toward anyone just starting to navigate the world of grants, foundations, and donors. Anne Rawn, Cherise Solomon, and Josh Marchesini each bring a different perspective to fundraising and development.

By Nathaniel Hanula-James / Oct 7, 2025

Puppeteer Annie Katsura Rollins is ready for the shadow revolution

"I disagree with how the Western world has equated shadows with darkness and ignorance and evil," says Rollins. "Shadows are equally as important as light. We give them no notice, once we grow up past a certain age. But they are necessary for us to process the world, and see in three dimensions, and understand movement and texture."

By Nathaniel Hanula-James / Sep 2, 2025
Derek Kwan's headshot, next to text that says iPhoto caption: Headshot by Dahlia Katz.

Derek Kwan wants to bring theatre back to the town square

"I’ve always loved the idea of art happening everywhere, from street art to yarn bombing," says Kwan. "We’re in a society right now that keeps dehumanizing us in so many ways. Art is a necessity in that it keeps us human."

By Nathaniel Hanula-James / Aug 12, 2025