Michael Shayan is an Emmy Award-nominated, Harvard trained writer, performer and illusionist. Recognized by NBC as a “rising star in comedy,” Shayan was recently honored in Out Magazine’s prestigious OUT100 list of the “most impactful and influential LGBTQ+ visionaries.” Following sold out, record-breaking runs, his acclaimed solo play Avaaz is currently on national tour, directed by Tony-nominee Moritz von Stuelpnagel. The play is nominated for three Helen Hayes Awards, including Outstanding Lead Performer and Outstanding Production.
A Fellow with the Sundance Institute and Lambda Literary, Shayan’s plays have been produced and developed at Audible, South Coast Repertory, Denver Center, Geffen Playhouse, The Olney Theatre, New York Stage and Film, Ojai Playwrights Conference, SPACE on Ryder Farm, La MaMa, and Rattlestick, among others. He was a writer and Consulting Producer on the Emmy-winning Book of Queer, and got his start in TV on the Emmy-winning We’re Here, both on MAX. At thirteen, he was the youngest performer in the history of the Hollywood Magic Castle. @michaelshayan
