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Photo of Ahmed Moneka by Ksenija Hotic.

Bio

Ahmed Moneka is a multi-talented artist from Baghdad, Iraq, specializing in acting, music, and writing. As an Afro-Iraqi, he deeply connects to his roots and culture, which he honours and preserves through his work. Ahmed’s artistic projects revolve around togetherness and harmony, which he believes are the core values of every endeavour he’s been a part of. His unique background and diverse skill set allow him to bring a fresh perspective to Canada’s entertainment industry.
Ahmed’s personal experiences in Iraq and his journey as a refugee seeking asylum in Canada in 2015 strongly influenced his art. He is passionate about telling stories of human struggle, joy and freedom and using his art to promote human rights, love, peace, and acceptance. Ahmed believes in connecting cultures to create a “global community.” Love is the main reason for a great future!
Ahmed has co-written several plays, including:
– “King Gilgamesh and the Man of the Wild” with Jesse LaVercombe and Seth Buckley for Tria Threatre. The play has been performed at Soulpepper in Toronto, LaMAMA Theatre in New York City, and The Jungle Theatre in Minneapolis.
– “Spaciousness” with Nicky Lawrence, an immersive theatre piece that will be showcased at The Historic Site of Fort York in 2022 and 2023.
– “The Onion Cellar,” which he is developing with Jeremy Smith and DriftWood Theatre.

Awards

  • Nominated for a Dora Award for Leading Role, Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo (2023)
  • Finalist in the Stingray Rising Stars category at the TD Toronto Jazz Festival (2019)
  • Winner of the Stingray Rising Stars award at Mundial Montreal (2022)

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King Gilgamesh & The Man of the Wild is the kind of play that feels both impossible and inevitable, a work of art that could only be dreamed up by this combination of artists asking the right questions at the right time in the right place.

Dan Rubins, Slant MagazinePraise for King Gilgamesh & The Man of the Wild

This hybrid tale inspired by the 11th century BCE epic is a raucous, glorious celebration of what it means to be alive.

Glenn SumiPraise for King Gilgamesh & The Man of the Wild