Drama Queens, a five-star arts journal focusing on female artists

Anya Kai, reporting

Anahita Monfared, a Persian-Canadian actor, writer, and dancer based in New York City, embodies a vibrant and multifaceted approach to art-making. Her work, deeply rooted in text, movement, and performance art, delves into profound themes such as the body politic, gender, and violence, all while championing a spirit of “disobedience – but like in a very fun, often cunty, Gen Z way where silliness is a virtue and play is the lifeboat through it all.” This unique blend of insightful critique and joyful rebellion defines Monfared’s artistic philosophy and practice.

Monfared’s journey into the arts was fueled by a childhood desire to experience countless lives. Initially frustrated by the limitations of choosing a single profession – from doctor to marine biologist to English professor – she discovered acting as a boundless realm where she could inhabit any role and explore myriad perspectives without judgment or fear. This profound realization solidified her path, leading her to pursue a career where she could be “surrounded by, talking about and creating art” every day. She firmly believes in the inherent artistry of everyone, citing her parents’ casual musicality and a barista’s latte art as examples of the ubiquitous nature of creativity. For Monfared, art is not merely a profession, but a fundamental way of being and connecting with the world.

Her decision to establish her artistic base in the United States was less about the country itself and more about the undeniable pull of New York City. At 16, a visit to the city sparked an immediate and profound sense of belonging, a “knowing in [her] bones” that this was where she was meant to live, learn, and create. New York’s “deep hunger to create, to disrupt, to push culture forward” proved to be an irresistible force, drawing her in with its vibrant culture, diverse talent, and spirit of innovation. The city’s eagerness to collaborate, experiment, and constantly strive for artistic excellence is what continues to fuel her and solidify her connection to its bustling artistic ecosystem.

While New York offers unparalleled opportunities, Monfared acknowledges the unique challenges faced by international artists. She views her international background not as a deficit, but as a significant advantage, enriching her artistry with diverse perspectives, nuance, and access to various artistic markets and techniques. She champions the immense value that international artists bring to the table, highlighting their resourcefulness, resilience, and talent, and advocating for the industry to recognize the powerful innovation that arises when artistic knowledge is shared across borders.

In a world increasingly shaped by political turbulence, Monfared sees the artist’s role as more crucial than ever. She believes an artist’s fundamental duty is to reflect and propel the times forward, underscoring the transformative power of storytelling to “change people’s minds and open people’s hearts.” This conviction drives her artistic output, making her work resonate with the urgency of the current moment.

Looking ahead, Monfared’s goals are ambitious and deeply rooted in her commitment to impactful storytelling. She seeks to bring forth narratives that demand honesty, embrace risk, and intentionally center previously unheard or misrepresented voices, whether through her acting or writing, on stage or on screen. Long-term, she envisions establishing her own production company to produce and fund the development of new works. Currently, she is immersed in developing Not This Body, her first full-length poetry manuscript, with aspirations of publishing and touring it globally.

Beyond her individual artistic pursuits, Monfared is dedicated to uplifting the communities she is a part of. As the Director of Development at Dyke Theater Co. and the Associate Artistic Director of MENA Artists Initiative, she actively contributes to shaping the NYC arts community. She is deeply passionate about the tangible support these organizations provide to emerging and marginalized artists, fostering connection, and propelling their voices and work forward. Through all her endeavors, Anahita Monfared remains committed to her core values of experimentation, play, wonder, and love, continuing to be a dynamic and influential force in the contemporary artistic landscape.