Chris Giordano
DIRECTING...
Philosophy...
As a director, I believe that curiosity fuels imagination. The constant question of "why" translates to "intention" in theatre. This guiding principle shapes my approach to analyzing texts, working with actors, and executing a holistic vision for a production. I’ve found that the deeper the "why," the greater the discoveries that lead to an in-the-moment truth on stage. Theatre is inherently political, so I seek material that not only entertains but also sparks conversations about societal improvement and growth.
I like to blend realism with imagination, aiming for my creative work in theatre to reflect our society while reigniting the imaginative spirit that has been in all of us since childhood. The beauty of imagination is that it transcends cultural boundaries, creating a universal language.
For musicals, I always come to rehearsal with a detailed game plan to ensure efficient blocking and timely progress. I excel at crafting a rehearsal schedule that allows for spontaneity while ensuring that actors are prepared and ready for the show. For plays, my approach is more flexible, with less preplanning regarding stage pictures and blocking. This fosters greater collaboration with actors, allowing their intuitions to guide the process.
Ultimately, my goal as a director is to create productions that are both reflective and imaginative, encouraging audiences to see themselves and society in new ways while sparking their creativity.
Portfolio...
The Pajama Game
Based on the 1953 novel 7½ Cents by Richard Bissell.
Music and Lyrics are by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross.
Book by George Abbott and Richard Bissell
Directed by Chris Giordano
at Great Neck North High School
Musical Director: Dr. PAMELA LEVY
Set Design: DINA MATERIA
Lighting Design: Dr. SCOTT ECKERS
Scenic Carpenter: KIERAN GRIFFIN
Technical Supervisor: MICHAEL MEEHAN
Conductor: ESTER NOH
Les Misérables: School Edition
A musical by ALAIN BOUBLIL and CLAUDE-MICHEL SCHÖNBERG
Based on the novel by VICTOR HUGO
Music by CLAUDE-MICHEL SCHÖNBERG
Lyrics by HERBERT KRETZMER
Directed by Chris Giordano
at Great Neck North High School
"By far, the best student performance I have seen in my 26 year career!"
- Dan Holtzman, Principal
Musical Director: Dr. PAMELA LEVY
Set Design: LEONARD ANTINORI
Lighting Design: Dr. SCOTT ECKERS
Scenic Carpenter: KIERAN GRIFFIN
Technical Supervisor: MICHAEL MEEHAN
Conductor: JACQUELYN TOMLET
MARIO! A Salute to the Great Lanza
Written by Sean Patrick Murtagh
Directed by Chris Giordano, Music Direction by Ge Enrique
at The Green Room 42, New York, NY
"Mr Murtagh's director, Chris Giordano of the blue eyes, has helped him to develop a show with purpose that never bores."
- Bobby Patrick, BroadwayWorld Cabaret
2020 MAC Award Winner for Best New York - Male Debut
Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr.
Book by Doug Wright, music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman, with additional lyrics by Glenn Slater
Part of TexARTS Youth Musical Theater Summer Academy
Directed by Chris Giordano
at the Kam & James Morris Theatre, TexARTS, Lakeway, TX
"The work Chris did was astounding and professional, and left our students with a sense of confidence, pride, and accomplishment when our production was completed."
- Jerome Schoolar, Academy Director at TexARTS
Choreography: Darren Gibson
Music Direction: Jerome Schoolar
Costumes: Cassie Eckerman
And the Award Goes To...
Written by Matt Heftler
Part of Emerging Artists Theatre's Fall 2019 New Work Series
Directed by Chris Giordano
at TADA! Theater, New York, NY
Stage Manager: Paulina Tobar