Development of Native Work & Native People

NPAN supports the development of new Native work through residencies in Native-centric spaces, community-rooted play development guided by the “Native gaze,” and opportunities for mentorship, leadership training, and wellness-centered professional growth. By nurturing both the art and the artist, this priority strengthens storytelling sovereignty, builds long-term leadership capacity, and ensures that Native creatives have the support, resources, and community needed to shape the stories told on American stages. 


NPAN builds connections through virtual and in-person convenings, supports Native theaters with financial and programmatic resources, and positions Portland as a hub for new play development by Native writers. By fostering a vibrant, interconnected community and sharing curated play recommendations with partner theaters, NPAN helps ensure that Native artists, stories, and organizations have the visibility, support, and infrastructure needed to thrive. 


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National Convening for Native Theater Artists

August 7–August 9, 2026


Join us in Portland for NPAN’s first National Convening for Native Theater Artists! More details will be announced soon.