Bryar Barborka

Bryar Barborka is a visionary nonbinary Latine theater artist, dramaturg, and arts administrator celebrated for their dedication to expanding audiences and uplifting historically marginalized voices in American theater. A graduate of The Theatre School at DePaul University with a BFA in dramaturgy, Barborka has quickly built a prominent reputation within the Chicago and national arts communities. They serve as a key artistic voice through their foundational roles as the Literary and Casting Associate at the prestigious Steppenwolf Theatre Company and the Literary Manager for the Breaking the Binary Theatre Festival, anchoring themselves at the intersection of contemporary play development and inclusive storytelling. Known for bringing sharp intellectual depth and cultural nuance to the rehearsal room, Barborka has served as the production dramaturg for several highly acclaimed and progressive theatrical works. Their notable credits include the world premiere of Tarell Alvin McCraney’s lyrical drama Windfall and the revival of Amadeus at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, as well as impactful collaborations on productions like The Lifespan of a Fact at TimeLine Theatre. Beyond these resident positions, Barborka’s versatile expertise has been sought out by major national institutions including Second Stage Theater, Goodman Theatre, The Playwrights’ Center, and the Seven Devils New Play Foundry, establishing them as a vital and transformative leader shaping the future of modern dramaturgy.