James Elazzi

07 August 2024

I wish to recognise James Elazzi , an acclaimed playwright, screenwriter, and director who was born and raised in Kearns, a suburb in South-Western Sydney and my electorate. James' personal background and experiences have significantly influenced his storytelling, often delving into the intricacies of Lebanese-Australian identity and the struggles of reconciling cultural heritage with contemporary Australian life. James has been nominated three times for the NSW Premier's Literary Award. His work is celebrated for its humour, tenderness, and deep exploration of complex family dynamics. In addition to his theatrical work, James has directed and produced short films which have been featured in numerous international film festivals. James' new play, 'Karim', will premiere at Riverside Theatres Parramatta from July 25 to August 3. His commitment to telling untold stories and bringing overlooked communities to the forefront is evident in all his works, including 'Karim', which continues his exploration of familial and cultural themes. I encourage everyone to go out and see 'Karim'.