Amara McNeil Named Howell Binkley Fellow
May 18, 2023
Amara McNeil
The Howell Binkley Fellowship Program announces third fellow for 2023: Amara McNeil is a New York-based, Hartford-raised theatrical lighting designer and filmmaker.
The fellowship, named for the lighting designer, a well-known figure on Broadway and in the dance world, offers an individual exposure to New York City-based lighting designers and the theatrical lighting community. It exposes them to the worlds of commercial and nonprofit lighting design. Created in partnership with the Hemsley Lighting Programs, the fellowship honors Howell Binkley's legacy of mentorship by providing the extra push and assistance in fostering the next generation of theatrical lighting designers as they begin their careers.
McNeil holds a BA in theatre from Fordham University and is a 2019 ALW American Theater Wing Scholar. According to a statement from the fellowship, "As a visual storyteller, she aims to create an immersive experience for the audience, using vibrant colors and dynamic angles to bring texture to the stage. As she continues to learn and grow, McNeil hopes to create work that breaks down society's perception of who gets to tell stories and what stories deserve to be told."
The statement adds that McNeil "is excited to learn from Amanda Zieve and Ryan O'Gara [Binkley's longtime associates] for the next four months, gaining technical experience and a wonderful network of mentors and collaborators."
The statement concludes, "We are thrilled that Amara found us and cannot wait to have such a gracious and motivated young designer join our team. Amara embodies the legacy of Howell Binkley, and we know he would have been delighted to meet her and watch her soar."
For more information or to donate, go to www.hemsleylightingprograms.com/howell-binkley-fellowship.