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Christopher Ashley

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BIO

Christopher Ashley won the Tony Award for his direction of the stage production of Come From Away on Broadway, and serves as the Artistic Director of the Tony Award-winning La Jolla Playhouse in San Diego, CA. Other film credits include Diana: The Musical on Netflix, the feature films Jeffrey and Lucky Stiff, and the American Playhouse production of Blown Sideways Through Life for PBS. At La Jolla Playhouse, Mr. Ashley directed the world-premiere productions of Come From Away, Diana: The Musical, Escape to Margaritaville, Memphis, The Darrell Hammond Project, Hollywood and Chasing the Song. Other select Playhouse credits include Freaky Friday, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Glengarry Glen Ross. In addition to Come From Away, other Broadway credits include; Diana: The Musical; Escape to Margaritaville, Xanadu, Leap of Faith (Drama Desk Award nomination); Memphis (Tony, Outer Critics Circle nominations); All Shook Up, The Rocky Horror Show(Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle Award nominations). Mr. Ashley directed productions of Come From Away in London, Toronto, Australia and on national tour. Other tours include Escape to Margaritaville, Memphis, Xanadu, All Shook Up and Seussical: The Musical. Additional New York stage credits: Blown Sideways Through Life, Jeffrey (Lucille Lortel and Obie Awards), The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told, Valhalla (Lucille Lortel nomination – Outstanding Direction), Regrets Only, Wonder of the World, Communicating Doors, Bunny Bunny, The Night Hank Williams Died, and Fires in the Mirror (Lucille Lortel Award), among others. Mr. Ashley is the recipient of the Princess Grace Award, the Drama League Director Fellowship and an NEA/TCG Director Fellowship.



Photos

Productions

 
[US Tour, 2023]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2021]
Director
 
[US Tour, 2021] [Replacement]
Original Broadway Director[Replacement]
 
[West End, 2021] [Replacement]
Director[Replacement]
 
[San Diego, CA (Regional), 2019]
Director
 
[US Tour, 2018] [Replacement]
Director[Replacement]
 
[San Diego, CA (Regional), 2018]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2018]
Producer
 
[Broadway, 2018]
Producer
Director
 
[Toronto, 2018]
Director
 
[US Tour, 2017]
Director
 
[Regional (US), 2017]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2017]
Director
 
[West End, 2016] [Replacement]
Director[Replacement]
 
[Washington, DC (Regional), 2016]
Director
 
[Washington, DC (Regional), 2016]
Director
 
[Regional (US), 2016]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2014]
Producer
 
[West End, 2014]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2012]
Director
 
[US Tour, 2011]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2009]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2007]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2006]
Director
 
[US Tour, 2006]
Director
 
[New York, 2006]
Director
Director
 
[New York, 2006]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2005]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2005]
Director
 
[Regional (US), 2004]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2004]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2004]
Director
 
[New York, 2003]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2003]
Director
Director
 
[US Tour, 2002]
Director
 
[Regional (US), 2002]
Director
 
[Regional (US), 2002]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2002]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2001]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2001]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2001]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2000]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2000]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1999]
Director
 
[Broadway, 1999]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
 
[Off-Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
 
[Broadway, 1997]
Production Consultant
 
[Regional (US), 1997]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1997]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1995]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1994]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1994]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1994]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1993]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1993]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1992]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1991]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1989]
Director

Writing


Awards and Nominations

Drama Desk Awards - 2017 - Outstanding Director of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Come From Away


winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2017 - Outstanding Director of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Come From Away


winner
Tony Awards - 2017 - Best Direction of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Come From Away

Drama Desk Awards - 2012 - Outstanding Director of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Leap of Faith

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2010 - Outstanding Director of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Memphis

Tony Awards - 2010 - Best Direction of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Memphis

Drama Desk Awards - 2007 - Outstanding Director of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Xanadu

The Lortels - 2004 - Outstanding Director

Christopher Ashley, Valhalla


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Christopher AshleySweeney Todd

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2001 - Outstanding Director of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, The Rocky Horror Show

Tony Awards - 2001 - Best Direction of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, The Rocky Horror Show


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2000 - Outstanding Director - Musical

Christopher Ashley, The Rocky Horror Show

Drama Desk Awards - 1996 - Outstanding Director - Musical

Christopher Ashley , Das Barbecu

Drama Desk Awards - 1994 - Outstanding Director - Musical

Christopher Ashley, Das Barbecii

Drama Desk Awards - 1993 - Outstanding Director - Play

Christopher Ashley, Jeffrey


winner
Obie Awards - 1993 - Direction

Christopher Ashley, Jeffrey


winner
The Lortels - 1993 - Outstanding Director

Christopher AshleyFires in the Mirror and Jeffrey

Videos

News


Video: Inside Rehearsals for 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse
by Joshua Wright - Jan 29, 2025

Go inside rehearsals for 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse. This gripping new musical tells the inspirational story of one of the most important friendships in our nation’s history, and a divided country coming together. Summer, 1862.
What Broadway Shows Are On Tour Across North America in 2025? - A Complete Guide
by Joshua Wright - Jan 27, 2025

Looking for a show to see in a city near you? Check out our guide of current and upcoming Broadway tours, and learn about each production as they make their way across the United States and Canada on their North American routes, including musicals and plays.
REDWOOD Will Offer Lottery and Rush Tickets
by Stephi Wild - Jan 23, 2025

Ahead of its first performance on Broadway, lottery and rush ticket policies have been announced for the new musical Redwood, starring Tony Award-winner Idina Menzel.
Original Canadian Production of COME FROM AWAY to Perform 1000th Performance
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 16, 2025

The original Canadian production of Come From Away will mark a milestone on January 29, 2025 when it gives its 1000th performance at the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
COME FROM AWAY Celebra 250 Funciones en el Teatro Marquina de Madrid
by Juan-Jose Gonzalez - Dec 26, 2024

El aclamado musical COME FROM AWAY alcanza un hito importante en su exitosa temporada en Madrid al celebrar 250 funciones en el Teatro Marquina. Estrenado el 28 de septiembre de 2023, este emocionante espectáculo se ha ganado el corazón del público español gracias a su conmovedora historia y su innovadora puesta en escena.
Spotlight: 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse
by BWW Special Offer - Dec 24, 2024

A Gripping World-Premiere Musical Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass had three pivotal conversations that shaped the course of history. This new musical tells the inspirational story of one of the most important friendships in our nation’s history, and a divided country coming together.
Ivan Hernandez Replaces Brian Stokes Mitchell in La Jolla's 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN; Carmen Cusack & More Join Cast
by Joshua Wright - Dec 19, 2024

Complete casting has been revealed for La Jolla Playhouse production of 3 Summers of Lincoln. Ivan Hernandez will play President Abraham Lincoln in its upcoming world premiere with book by Joe DiPietro; lyrics by Daniel J. Watts and Joe DiPietro; music by Crystal Monee Hall; choreography by Jon Rua and Daniel J. Watts; and directed by Christopher Ashley, the Rich Family Artistic Director of La Jolla Playhouse.
Interview: Theatre Life with Rachel Simone Webb
by Elliot Lanes - Dec 18, 2024

Today’s subject Rachel Simone Webb is currently living her theatre life onstage at the Kennedy Center in the North American Tour of & Juliet playing the role of Juliet. The show runs through January 5th in the Opera House.
Cast Set For National Tour of HERE THERE ARE BLUEBERRIES
by Stephi Wild - Dec 18, 2024

The cast has been announced for the national tour of Tectonic Theater Project’s new play, Here There Are Blueberries. Learn more about the cast and find out where to catch the show here!
COME FROM AWAY Returns To The Washington Pavilion In January
by A.A. Cristi - Dec 12, 2024

The Washington Pavilion will welcome the popular musical production of COME FROM AWAY back to its stage for a limited time engagement on January 7–9, 2025.
La Jolla Playhouse Latinx New Play Festival Sets 2025 Date
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 6, 2024

La Jolla Playhouse has revealed the dates for the 2025 Latinx New Play Festival, co-produced with TuYo Theatre. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
Video: Hear 'Kaboom' from THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL at Signature Theatre
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 29, 2024

Signature Theatre in Washington DC will present the second production of The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical by Joe Iconis as part of their 2024/2025 season. Watch the cast perform the number, 'Kaboom' in a new video!
Tickets to COME FROM AWAY in Chicago to Go On Sale Tomorrow
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 21, 2024

The national tour of COME FROM AWAY, a Broadway musical about the true story of the small town that welcomed the world, will return to Chicago this winter. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
De’Adre Aziza, Michael Park, Zachary Noah Piser, and Khaila Wilcoxon Join Idina Menzel-Led REDWOOD
by Stephi Wild - Nov 21, 2024

The full company has been announced for the new musical Redwood, coming to Broadway in 2025, led by Idina Menzel. Learn more about the cast and the production here!
Stage Directors And Choreographers Society Announces Executive Board Election Results And President's Award
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 21, 2024

SDC announced the results of its 2024 Executive Board election, highlighting new leadership roles and the organization's future direction. Discover the elected members and their upcoming initiatives.
Video: Mr. Joe Iconis Is Riding the Wave of 'Wavesong'
by Robert Bannon - Nov 15, 2024

In this video, we welcome welcome Broadway composer, singer, writer- He Does It All- Mr. Joe Iconis! This is his first time swinging by the Roundtable, and we had a lot to talk about, including his new single, 'Wavesong'.
Tickets on Sale For HADESTOWN and COME FROM AWAY in Cleveland
by Stephi Wild - Nov 15, 2024

Playhouse Square announced that tickets to the touring Broadway productions of HADESTOWN and COME FROM AWAY are available for purchase now. Learn more here!
La Jolla Playhouse Reveals Projects for 2024 DNA New Work Series
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 12, 2024

La Jolla Playhouse has revealed the dates and projects for its 2024 DNA New Work Series, running in the Playhouse’s Rao and Padma Makineni Play Development Center. See full programming and see how to purchase tickets.
COME FROM AWAY to Return to The Fisher Theater in February
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 4, 2024

COME FROM AWAY will return to the Fisher Theatre in Detroit. Experience the musical that tells the story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town that welcomed them. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Cyndi Lauper & Theresa Rebeck's WORKING GIRL, Julia Child Play & More Set For La Jolla Playhouse 2025/26 Season
by Joshua Wright - Oct 31, 2024

La Jolla Playhouse has announced their 2025/2026 season featuring new works from Cyndi Lauper & Theresa, a new play about Julia Child and more.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many shows has Christopher Ashley written?

Christopher Ashley has written 1 shows including Buzzsaw Berkeley (Conceiver).

What awards has Christopher Ashley been nominated for?

Outstanding Director of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Come From Away, Outstanding Director of a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Come From Away, Best Direction of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Come From Away, Outstanding Director of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Leap of Faith , Outstanding Director of a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Memphis, Best Direction of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Memphis, Outstanding Director of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Xanadu, Outstanding Director (The Lortels) for Valhalla, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Sweeney Todd, Outstanding Director of a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for The Rocky Horror Show, Best Direction of a Musical (Tony Awards) for The Rocky Horror Show, Outstanding Director - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for The Rocky Horror Show, Outstanding Director - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Das Barbecu, Outstanding Director - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Das Barbecii, Outstanding Director - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Jeffrey, Direction (Obie Awards) for Jeffrey and Outstanding Director (The Lortels) for Fires in the Mirror and Jeffrey.

What awards has Christopher Ashley won?

Christopher Ashley has received several prestigious awards, including: - Outstanding Director of a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Come From Away - Best Direction of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Come From Away - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Sweeney Todd - Outstanding Director - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for The Rocky Horror Show - Direction (Obie Awards) for Jeffrey - Outstanding Director (The Lortels) for Fires in the Mirror and Jeffrey.

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