Monica Sampson: Queer Shakespeare Founder & Arizona Theatre Leader

Monica Sampson is rapidly becoming a force in American theatre, not just as a versatile performer – actor, director and intimacy coordinator – but as a champion for inclusive storytelling. Sampson, the founder and artistic director of All Queer Shakespeare (AQS), is building a platform for LGBTQIA+ voices within the classical canon and beyond.

Sampson’s journey began with a childhood fascination sparked by Barbra Streisand. “As the credits rolled,” she recalled, “seeing ‘directed by Barbra Streisand,’ ‘produced by Barbra Streisand,’ ‘starring Barbra Streisand’—in that moment, something clicked. I understood it was possible to be the creator of your own story, and I’ve been unapologetically myself ever since.” This early realization fueled a career dedicated to creative ownership and authentic representation. Sampson, who identifies as plus-size, Jewish, and queer, has consistently centered diverse narratives in her work.

AQS, launched in 2024, has quickly gained recognition. The company has already participated in London Pride and Seattle Pride, and has been invited to present at universities and theatres across the U.S., U.K., and Europe. Following a sold-out inaugural season, Sampson is now focused on “A Season of Collaboration,” a project designed to demonstrate that the principles of inclusion and diversity extend beyond the LGBTQIA+ community. This ambition signals a broader vision for AQS – to advocate for inclusivity as a universal value within the performing arts.

Sampson’s background is remarkably diverse. She holds a double degree in Broadcast Journalism and Theater from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. Her training extends internationally, including experience at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater in London, where she participated in a production of Hamlet. This foundation has led to a career encompassing Off-Broadway work, film, commercials, and extensive involvement in the Arizona theatre scene. She has appeared on NPR, PBS, and NBC, and collaborated with prominent companies like The Phoenix Theatre Company and Childsplay.

Beyond her performance and directing work, Sampson is a certified Intimacy Coordinator through the Principal Intimacy Program with the Screen Actors Guild. She currently serves as the Resident Intimacy Coordinator for StrayCat Theatre and has recently worked with iTheatre Collaborative. This role reflects a commitment to safe and respectful working environments within the industry, a concern that has gained increasing prominence in recent years.

Sampson’s influence extends to education as well. She owns the Sampson Studio, where she has spent over a decade training performers of all ages – from eight to eighty-eight – using trauma-informed, anatomy-based voice and acting pedagogy. Many of her students have gone on to successful careers on Broadway, the West End, national tours, and in feature films.

The impact of Sampson’s work is resonating within the artistic community. Ezra Neighbors, a core company member of AQS, praised Sampson for “changing the landscape of our hometown.” Performing artist Taryn Landis added that Sampson has “created a wonderful, welcoming, and kind community of like-minded theatre artists here, even beyond her work as a director and intimacy coordinator. Her work and talents are invaluable and unmatched in Phoenix.” These testimonials highlight Sampson’s ability to foster a supportive and empowering environment for artists.

Sampson’s debut with Arizona Theatre Company marks another significant step in her career. Her multifaceted skillset – as an actor, director, and intimacy coordinator – positions her as a valuable asset to any production. She brings not only technical expertise but also a deeply held commitment to ethical and inclusive practices.

In a recent conversation, Sampson emphasized the importance of consent, reminding everyone that “the sexiest thing you can do on and off stage is ask for consent!” This statement encapsulates her dedication to creating safe and respectful spaces for artistic expression.

Sampson’s story is one of artistic vision, unwavering self-belief, and a commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable theatre landscape. Her work with All Queer Shakespeare, combined with her dedication to education and advocacy, suggests she is a rising star with a significant contribution to make to the future of American theatre.