Danielle A. Drakes

Danielle A. Drakes is a multi-faceted theatre professional with extensive experience in performance, directing and arts administration. Drakes has dedicated her career to using theatre as a tool for envisioning a more empathetic and equitable society. As an actor, she blends living history with social impact. As an artistic doula she has supported artists on their creative journeys from idea to execution with care. She developed and directed Paige Hernandez’s solo shows Paige in Full and Havana Hop and both continuing to tour nationally and internationally.

Most recently, she directed two world premiere productions: The Wilting Point at Keegan Theatre and Ghost/Writer at Rep Stage. Professionally, her work has earned her a Helen Hayes Awards nod for outstanding direction.  Additional professional credits include The Kennedy Center and Ford’s Theatre, where she originated the role of Elizabeth Keckley in History on Foot (recipient of the Helen Hayes, The Washington Post Award).

She is a member of DC’s Taffety Punk Theatre Company, Actors’ Equity Association and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. She received her BA in Theatre from Goucher College and MFA in Acting from The Catholic University of America.