Desai is the first person of color to lead the theatre, once renowned for its commitment to socially engaged drama.
Directing
David Geffen School of Drama and Yale Repertory Theatre require all students, technical interns, faculty, staff, and guest artists to follow Yale University's COVID vaccine policy, which strongly recommends vaccines. The Yale policy is subject to change pending changes to public health conditions. Additionally, community members will be asked to comply with any masking or testing policies set forth by the School, Yale Rep, or Yale University, should they arise.
The Directing program admits talented and disciplined artists who have demonstrated the potential to become professional directors. Each year, three directors are admitted to the program on the basis of demonstrated artistic ability and capacity for collaborative leadership. They bring to the School a wide range of sensibilities, but share some crucial qualities. They are generators of ideas and projects. They have lively imaginations, an appetite for hard questions, and a robust curiosity about, and respect for, the world beyond their own cultural borders. They are not afraid to take risks, and they take responsibility for the philosophical and political implications of their work. Above all, they have a deep respect for the colleagues with whom they work and are eager, in coming to David Geffen School of Drama, to contribute to a mutually supportive community of fellow learners. Our goal is to train directors whose future work will advance human understanding and compassion through the infinitely expressive interplay of image, action, and word unique to our art form. Our graduates go on to play significant roles in communities around the world as directors of theater, opera, television, and film; as founders of opera and theater companies; as artistic directors of theaters and community arts organizations; and as arts educators.
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All students in degree and certificate programs receive full tuition scholarships.
67% of current students receive need-based aid for living expenses.
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Production Opportunities
Students apply theory to professional practice in production work at the School, Yale Rep, and Yale Cabaret.
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Affinity Groups
Coalition-building and networking among students who share common interests, goals, and/or a self-identified background.


Program News

Feb 14, 2023
Charlotte Brathwaite (’11) Wins Doris Duke Artist Award
The largest award for individual performing artists honors those transforming the fields of dance, jazz, and theatre.
The largest award for individual performing artists honors those transforming the fields of dance, jazz, and theatre.