Moonlight is one of the most acclaimed films of 2016 and is considered to be a strong Academy Award contender when the time comes. Now, the writer behind the play that inspired the film is taking on a huge new role.

Tarell Alvin McCraney, the writer of "In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue,” has been named the new chairperson for the Yale School of Drama's playwriting department.

Additionally, McCraney will also be the playwright in residence at Yale Repertory Theater.

In an interview with the New York Times, McCraney spoke on his new appointment, saying, "We’ve seen the rise of more voices in theater and especially more voices that didn’t have access before. But those voices aren’t centered. Those voices are still somehow marginalized. Are we really reflecting the community? Are their voices represented?” he said. “Those are questions for my work. I can help advocate for the voices around me.”

McCraney himself is an alum of the Yale School of Drama, graduating in 2007. 

---

Never miss headline. Sign up for Blavity's daily newsletter.