Priya Shah

Priya Shah is the former Executive Director of Storycatchers Theatre, an organization that uses musical theatre to help incarcerated youth confront and heal from trauma. Through her leadership, she developed innovative programs that support young people in juvenile detention centers by helping them transform their personal experiences into powerful musical performances.1

Key Professional Contributions

Organizational Leadership:

• Served as Executive Director of Storycatchers Theatre for six and a half years3
• Led programs that help incarcerated youth develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and life skills1
• Expanded the organization's post-release support programs2

Program Impact: Shah's work focuses on helping youth who have experienced trauma by:

• Guiding them to write and perform their personal narratives
• Providing platforms for youth to engage with decision-makers and influencers
• Helping young people rebuild their identity and develop coping mechanisms1

Notable Achievements:

• Worked with over 90% of youth who have experienced significant trauma
• Created programs that help youth understand actions, consequences, and personal growth
• Facilitated dialogues between youth and institutions like the Chicago Police Department1

In December 2021, Shah made the decision to step down from her role as Executive Director after making significant contributions to Storycatchers Theatre.3