Hi, I’m Ilana.

I am a creative director, experience designer, writer, and speaker. I am moved to create stories that unleash the magic of nature and human nature: drawing us deeper into connection with one another and with life.

I collaborate with companies and individuals to create spaces, stories, and exchanges that awaken wonder and turn imagination into experience.

I worked with Sleep No More and Emursive Productions for thirteen years, as the company’s Chief Storyteller and as a Sleep No More performer. From Life and Trust to Speakeasy Magick and numerous private events, I’ve developed a deep expertise in crafting immersive worlds and narrative design.

I’ve also worked extensively as a facilitator and moderator; leading panels, talkbacks, and salons across the arts and creative industries. Learn more about my current live talk series— PMS: Philosophical Musing Sessions— here.

I hold a PhD from Columbia, an MA from Queen’s University Belfast, and a BA from Cornell University, all in English Literature— which means I love words and ideas enough to spend eleven years with them.

I live in Brooklyn with the love of my life, Max, and our ever-increasing number of houseplants.