Inspiring Voices. Diverse Stories.

Welcome to Chaand Theatre, where we illuminate transformative stories.

Established in 2024, we show dedication in providing quality productions that leave our audiences feeling moved and empowered.

Photographed by: Rafael Esteban | @rafaelestebanac

Who We Are

Founded by Umberina, Chaand Theatre is dedicated to amplifying the stories of predominantly Muslim theatre artists of South Asian, Middle Eastern, and North African descent (and more!).

"Chaand", meaning Moon in several South Asian languages, draws creative inspiration from the moon itself. As a celestial body that regularly cycles through phases of darkness and illumination, the moon symbolizes the human experiences of both struggle and renewal.

Our mission is to develop, produce, and promote plays and other theatrical works that authentically represent the perspectives and experiences of diverse artists from these regions.

Our core values are representation, inclusion, creative expression, and community building. We believe in the power of storytelling to build cross-cultural understanding, combat stereotypes, and celebrate the richness of various cultures. We are committed to diversity both on stage and behind the scenes.

We aim to transform theatre into a more equitable space where their narratives are valued and their artistry allowed to thrive.

Meet Our Team

Founder - Artistic Director

Umberina is an actor and director whose affinity for storytelling stems from when she starred in a play at age five. Upon discovering that acting was her anchor, she enrolled in Trinity College London's drama course, becoming one of the first students in the Middle East to achieve great success in the course.

In 2021, Umberina moved to New York City to study at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA). The following year, she became a member of AADA’s esteemed Company, led by director and dialect coach, Barbara Rubin.

Beyond her acting pursuits, she is a professional director, leveraging her platform to highlight her proud Islamic faith and South Asian heritage. She hopes that every tale told at Chaand willl be a testament to the universal power of human experience.

Meet Nadeen, a Palestinian graphic designer born and raised in Kuwait. From a young age, her passion for art has been evident, leading her to pursue a career in graphic design. Specializing in branding, packaging, merchandising, and more, she finds joy in every aspect of the creative process.Over time, Nadeen has honed her artistic and design skills, constantly seeking inspiration and learning new techniques to enhance her craft. Driven by her faith, Nadeen sees her work as an opportunity to contribute positively to the world, particularly through projects in Chaand Theatre, where she can share the stories of Muslims through her designs.

Head of Graphic Design

Producer

Born in Slovenia and raised in Dubai, U.A.E, Amelie has constantly been surrounded by a cocktail of cultures. Dialects, language, and human behavior instantly became an obsession, sparking a fascination for accents and imitations, the beginning of Amelie’s passion for performance. Amelie studied Opera at Trinity Guildhall in Dubai, attended workshops at the Oxford School of Drama, Guildhall and Mountview in London and finally ended up in NYC at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Amelie’s credits include; Flynn O’Malley in Lizzie, Mrs. Cratchit, Past Ghost, Fred’s Wife and Narrator in A Christmas Carol, Sophia in SISTERS, Hailey in Don’t Talk to Strangers, Genie in Family Business and Ella in Life Sucks.

Chaand Theatre is powered and partnered with Alchem3. A marketing agency with a unique trio-centric approach to human copywriting that engages and converts. Founded by Mumin, who is a dynamic sales and marketing professional based in London, with a proven track record of driving business growth and securing high-profile clients across various industries, including technology, finance, and consulting. Find them at Alchem3.com.