Old Globe and Public Theater Name BIPOC Critics Lab
Ten writers are selected for the 2026-2027 cohort to expand arts journalism access.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Arts Theater — General
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The Old Globe and The Public Theater have selected ten participants for the 2026-2027 BIPOC Critics Lab. The program has expanded this year to include a West Coast cohort alongside the existing East Coast group.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to reshape the landscape of arts journalism by addressing historical exclusions. It reflects institutional goals to increase equity, diversity, inclusion, and access within the field.
The cohort consists of 10 writers selected for the 2026-2027 term, divided equally between West and East Coast regions. The Public Theater previously hosted the program for three years before this expanded partnership.
The players
The Old Globe
This is a professional theater company based in San Diego that is recognized for its artistic productions and educational initiatives.
The Public Theater
This is a major nonprofit theater organization located in New York City that is known for producing new works and supporting arts advocacy.
Lucía Serrano
She is a member of the West Coast cohort who received an Emmy Award in 2023 and led productions at the Academy Museum and Carnegie Hall.
LOUR
She is a member of the East Coast cohort who was recognized as a MacDowell Fellow in 2026.
Katana Dumont
She is a member of the West Coast cohort who brings seven years of professional experience to the program.
The details
The program utilizes a hybrid model with primary instruction delivered via virtual sessions. These sessions are supplemented by in-person opportunities at The Old Globe in San Diego and The Public Theater in New York City.
Timeline
The participants serve their term in the Lab during the 2026-2027 season.
Industry Dynamics
The expansion of this lab follows a broader industry trend of major cultural institutions creating formal pipelines for marginalized voices in professional criticism. It marks a departure from traditional, informal hiring networks that have historically dominated the field.
By fostering a more diverse group of critics, the program aims to diversify the perspectives and voices that influence theater coverage and audience engagement. Readers can expect to see new perspectives represented in arts journalism as these participants begin their work.
The takeaway
The BIPOC Critics Lab highlights the value of structured professional development in creating a more equitable media landscape. Aspiring arts journalists can benefit from tracking similar institutional programs that offer mentorship and networking opportunities.
Further reading
Find more updates on current initiatives in the Arts Theater section.
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