Heather Dundas

Heather Dundas is a writer, researcher, and lyricist. While studying at the University of Southern California, she uncovered the legendary story of Michel Foucault’s LSD experience in Death Valley (in 1975), long considered a myth. Heather tracked down Simeon Wade, the former professor who hosted Foucault, and published an interview with him in Boom: A Journal of California. After Wade’s death in 2017, Heather helped secure a publisher for his manuscript, Foucault in California, and wrote the book’s foreword. The book has received international acclaim, with translations in French, German, Spanish, and Portuguese.

In a review, Le Monde called the book “an extraordinary rediscovery.” Die Zeit praised Heather’s contribution as “insightful and evocative, not only framing Wade’s narrative but offering a fresh, nuanced perspective on the intersection of counterculture and intellectual history.” Other writers have called for Heather to expand her account of her meeting and subsequent friendship with Simeon Wade.

During her Lucas Arts Fellowship, Heather is using Simeon Wade and Michel Foucault’s transformative journey to Death Valley as the inspiration for a new theater piece.

Heather’s creative work extends beyond her research. Her short play Cannibals has been widely produced, and she’s been a teaching artist for the Los Angeles Master Chorale and the Center Theater Group. In addition, she’s held teaching positions at USC, Cal State LA, Colorado College, and Pasadena City College. She is currently a story editor for podcasts. Her website is heatherdundas.com.