David Rotenberg
David Rotenberg is the author of 12 mystery, science fiction, and historical fiction novels. Many have been optioned for film and television. City Rising, Book One of his sweeping Shanghai Tetralogy, was released on November 9, 2023. Books Two through Four are scheduled for individual release in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
David was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. He attended the University of Toronto, and upon graduation entered the MFA directing program at the Yale School of Drama. David went on to direct on Broadway and in major regional theatres throughout North America. In 1998 he directed the first Canadian play to be produced in the People’s Republic of China.
Also a master acting teacher, David was the Director of the York University MFA program for 17 years. He also taught at the National Theatre School of Canada, the Shanghai Theatre Academy, and the University of Cape Town.
In 2003 he founded the world-renowned Professional Actors Lab in Toronto, Canada. His unique training for professional actors has drawn students from across Canada and the United States, and from as far afield as Turkey, South Africa, Mexico, China and the UK. His work as mentor and coach supported hundreds of careers in the film and TV industry. In 2021, David published ACT - The Modern Actor’s Handbook. It has become a key resource for working actors looking to make their work more compelling.
An End and New Beginning
David passed away on November 8, 2023, only days after completing Book Four of the Shanghai Tetralogy. These final chapters trace the rediscovery of the prophetic Narwhal tusk and the realization of an ancient Emperor’s vision.
The entire series is now complete and in the hands of David’s publisher. It will be released in stages over the next three years. The Shanghai Tetralogy is a remarkable literary achievement. It is also the story of a gifted writer’s abiding fascination, courage and love.