Director, Author & Advocate

Schele Williams is a revolutionary force in American theater, known for her piercing vision, groundbreaking creativity, and commitment to elevating authentic representation on stage and beyond. Poised to become one of the leading directors of her generation, Williams has already made history as the first Black woman in over 50 years to direct a Broadway musical, debuting with the highly anticipated productions of The Wiz and The Notebook in 2024. These two landmark works, the latter co-directed with Michael Greif, solidify her place as a creative powerhouse with a genre-defining, boundary-leaping approach to storytelling.

Williams' artistic journey began as a Broadway performer in Rent and Aida, but her creative curiosity propelled her to transition into directing, where she is now recognized as one of modern culture’s most sought-after storytellers. Her career milestones include not only The Wiz and The Notebook but also Disney’s forthcoming revival of Aida and the stage adaptation of Hidden Figures, which continues to spotlight her ability to reimagine narratives through a fresh, inclusive lens.

With a singular focus on fostering inclusive stories, Williams is an oracle of the theater, carving out spaces where actors can flourish and stories can resonate across cultural divides. Her directorial vision marries a deep respect for tradition with a contemporary edge that infuses new life into every project she leads. This approach is particularly evident in her leadership of The Wiz, a cultural touchstone for Black America, which she has reimagined for modern audiences while preserving its timeless celebration of Black excellence.

Beyond Broadway, Williams’ influence spans multiple genres as she expands into film and television. Her work has earned her praise not only for her artistry but for her dedication to social justice. As a co-founder of Black Theatre United, she actively advocates for racial equality within the industry, while serving on the boards of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and Broadway Inspirational Voices. Her commitment to empowering others is also reflected in her literary work. Williams is the acclaimed author of Your Legacy: A Bold Reclaiming of Our Enslaved History, which won the 2022 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Honor, and her second book, Your Legacy Begins, published in 2024, continues her mission of offering narratives of empowerment for future generations.

Williams' path from performing to directing is not only a testament to her versatility but also a reflection of her passion for fostering inclusive, socially conscious art. She has been lauded for her creative leadership in productions that blend traditional narratives with a revolutionary sensibility, always questioning how stories can speak to the 21st-century experience. Her visionary direction, celebrated for its emotional depth and striking authenticity, has positioned her as one of the most influential voices shaping the future of theater.

As she continues to direct productions that challenge conventions and open up new dialogues around representation, Williams stands as an artistic leader, one whose influence on the future of theater will be felt for generations. She is a beacon of hope, creativity, and purpose, pushing the boundaries of what storytelling can achieve in modern culture.