Presenter Profile

Ben Raanan

Guest Artist, Phamaly Theatre Company

Ben (he/him) is the Artistic Director at Phamaly Theatre Company. Ben is a disabled director whose work focuses on producing artistically rigorous theatre with, for, and about the disabled community. His favorite directing credits include: Mockingbird (Falcon Theatre), Antigone: born against, The 4th Graders Present an Unnamed Love Suicide, Crumble: Lay Me Down Justin Timberlake, Love & Information (Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati), Falling (DePaul).

Ben's Workshops


    Shakespeare & Autism: The Hunter Heartbeat

    Beginning, , / Acting, , , , , / Regular

    The Hunter Heartbeat method is a Shakespearean based form of performance and dramatherapy for individuals with autism, developed by renowned Shakespearian actress and director, Kelly Hunter. During this workshop, participants will explore the connection between the rhythm of Shakespeare’s Iambic Pentameter and students with cognitive disabilities through a series of drama games. Participants can expect to gain both an understanding of disability and the bard while also being taught practical exercises and games. This course is taught by Ben Raanan: a certified Hunter Heartbeat teacher, an ensemble member of Flute Theatre, and the Artistic Director of SpectrumShakes.