Doing things bravely.
Dramaturg | Artist | Advocate | Scholar
"I know that I am a small, weak man, but I have amassed a large library. I dream of dangerous places."
- Terry Pratchett
What I Offer
01 Backstitch Story Arts
Backstitch Story Arts is a new storytelling and theatre initiative in Chicago focused on new work and narratives that haven't been represented on stage.
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02 Developmental Dramaturgy
Collaborative dramaturgical support for writers and creatives developing new work, from early concepts through final revisions. One-time developmental consultation or packages available; Sliding scale available based on schedule availability.
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03 Production Dramaturgy & Lobby Displays
Production dramaturgy services, including actor packets, research materials, and digital or physical lobby displays tailored to each company, space, and budget. Sliding scale available.
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04 Literary & Developmental Editing
Editorial and curatorial work that supports writers, especially new or emerging voices. I am interested in speculative and culturally grounded stories. Prospective clients may submit a sample chapter and cover letter. Rates are dependent on the timeframe and project.
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05 Workshops & Lectures
Interactive workshops, lectures, and facilitated discussions on dramaturgy, storytelling, cultural representation, and socially engaged theatre for universities, arts organizations, and community spaces.
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06 Cultural Consulting
Cultural consultation and sensitivity support for organizations and creative teams seeking ethical, nuanced representation of SWANA communities and diasporic experiences. Prospective clients must have a consultation about the project before I accept the work; Sliding scale is available.
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07 Arts & Non-profit Leadership
Leadership and program development focused on community arts engagement, youth programming, festivals, and socially engaged theatre initiatives.
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08 Community-Based Projects, Outreach & Curation
I have over ten years of experience creating, curating and leading community centered initiatives. From volunteer organizations that allow teens to invest in their own communities to theatrical pursuits, My work is rooted in community advocacy and focusing on the people the stories are meant to serve.
Learn MoreSelected Works
These selected projects are career highlights and some of my favorite projects to work on. From staged readings to site specific productions my versatility affords me the ability to help playwrights, directors, and everyone in between gain a deeper understanding of plays and the places they take place.
Let's Work Together
Suzi Elnaggar is an Egyptian American performance scholar, freelance dramaturg, and theatre-maker. She is the LMDA president for 2026-28. As a dramaturg, she is passionate about developing new work. She is the artistic director of Backstitch Story Arts and the Digital Development Project. Her scholarship examines cultural production in Egypt. Suzi’s practice centers community, collaboration, and context.
How I Work
I am an artist and advocate for writers and performers.
As a dramaturg and performance scholar, my practice is rooted in the traditions of community-based storytelling. I believe in the validity. necessity, and beauty of amplifying and documenting stories told through oral tradition in cafes and on living room couches.
I believe in collaborative listening and creative generosity to uncover the hidden details of your work. By being fully ourselves in the room, creative work can truly begin.