Kimiko Matsuda-Lawrence uses writing as a means of world-building. Raised in both Washington, D.C. and Honolulu, Hawai’i in “a family of activists, critical race theorists, and freedom fighters,” the writer, director, and producer grew up with no shortage of storytelling inspiration.
She got her start in theater, working alongside notable figures including Anna Deavere Smith, Diane Paulus, and Kerry Washington. After writing and performing plays such as “Holding: A Queer Black Love Story,” “Black Magic,” and “I, Too, Am Harvard,” Matsuda-Lawrence shifted to on-screen projects.
Much like her plays, Matsuda-Lawrence’s work explores the nuances of Black love, friendships, personal growth, and everyday struggles. She expertly combines comedy with an earnest