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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

Come From Away (Non-Equity)Come From Away (Non-Equity)
 
[US Tour, 2023]
Director
DianaDiana
 
[Broadway, 2021]
Director
Escape to Margaritaville (Non Eq)Escape to Margaritaville (Non Eq)
 
[US Tour, 2021] [Replacement]
Original Broadway Director[Replacement]
Come From AwayCome From Away
 
[West End, 2021] [Replacement]
Director[Replacement]
DianaDiana
 
[San Diego, CA (Regional), 2019]
Director
Come From AwayCome From Away
 
[US Tour, 2018] [Replacement]
Director[Replacement]
The SquirrelsThe Squirrels
 
[San Diego, CA (Regional), 2018]
Director
Summer: The Donna Summer MusicalSummer: The Donna Summer Musical
 
[Broadway, 2018]
Producer
Escape to MargaritavilleEscape to Margaritaville
 
[Broadway, 2018]
Producer
Director
Come From AwayCome From Away
 
[Toronto, 2018]
Director
Escape to MargaritavilleEscape to Margaritaville
 
[US Tour, 2017]
Director
Escape to MargaritavilleEscape to Margaritaville
 
[Regional (US), 2017]
Director
Come From AwayCome From Away
 
[Broadway, 2017]
Director
Much Ado About NothingMuch Ado About Nothing
 
[West End, 2016] [Replacement]
Director[Replacement]
Freaky FridayFreaky Friday
 
[Washington, DC (Regional), 2016]
Director
Come From AwayCome From Away
 
[Washington, DC (Regional), 2016]
Director
Hollywood
 
[Regional (US), 2016]
Director
Side ShowSide Show
 
[Broadway, 2014]
Producer
MemphisMemphis
 
[West End, 2014]
Director
Leap of FaithLeap of Faith
 
[Broadway, 2012]
Director
Memphis: A New MusicalMemphis: A New Musical
 
[US Tour, 2011]
Director
Memphis: A New MusicalMemphis: A New Musical
 
[Broadway, 2009]
Director
XanaduXanadu
 
[Broadway, 2007]
Director
Regrets Only
 
[Off-Broadway, 2006]
Director
All Shook Up
 
[US Tour, 2006]
Director
Xanadu
 
[New York, 2006]
Director
Director
Princesses
 
[New York, 2006]
Director
The 24 Hour Plays 2005
 
[Broadway, 2005]
Director
All Shook UpAll Shook Up
 
[Broadway, 2005]
Director
All Shook Up
 
[Regional (US), 2004]
Director
Between Us
 
[Off-Broadway, 2004]
Director
Valhalla
 
[Off-Broadway, 2004]
Director
Little Mary Sunshine
 
[New York, 2003]
Director
Mondo Drama
 
[Off-Broadway, 2003]
Director
Director
Seussical
 
[US Tour, 2002]
Director
Merrily We Roll Along
 
[Regional (US), 2002]
Director
Sweeney Todd
 
[Regional (US), 2002]
Director
The Smell of the Kill
 
[Broadway, 2002]
Director
Wonder of the World
 
[Off-Broadway, 2001]
Director
Rude Entertainment
 
[Off-Broadway, 2001]
Director
Newyorkers
 
[Off-Broadway, 2001]
Director
The Rocky Horror Show
 
[Broadway, 2000]
Director
What You Get and What You Expect
 
[Off-Broadway, 2000]
Director
The Country Club
 
[Off-Broadway, 1999]
Director
Voices in the Dark
 
[Broadway, 1999]
Director
The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
Communicating Doors
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
As Thousands Cheer
 
[Off-Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
As Thousands Cheer
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
Li'l Abner
 
[Off-Broadway, 1998]
Director
Jackie
 
[Broadway, 1997]
Production Consultant
Lucky in the Rain
 
[Regional (US), 1997]
Director
Bunny Bunny
 
[Off-Broadway, 1997]
Director
Wantabanaland
 
[Off-Broadway, 1995]
Director
Das Barbecu
 
[Off-Broadway, 1994]
Director
The Naked Truth
 
[Off-Broadway, 1994]
Director
Blown Sideways Through Life
 
[Off-Broadway, 1994]
Director
Blown Sideways Through Life
 
[Off-Broadway, 1993]
Director
Jeffrey
 
[Off-Broadway, 1993]
Director
Jeffrey
 
[Off-Broadway, 1992]
Director
The White Rose
 
[Off-Broadway, 1991]
Director
The Night Hank Williams Died
 
[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

More Videos

News


Video: Inside 'The Song of the Brown Buffalo' In THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. Photo
Video: Inside 'The Song of the Brown Buffalo' In THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL
by A.A. Cristi - Jun 20, 2025

Signature Theatre’s world premiere production of The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical is now igniting the stage in Arlington, Virginia. Go inside “The Song of the Brown Buffalo,” an anthem of identity, power, and defiance, in a new video highlighting George Salazar as Oscar Acosta.
Interview: Theatre Life with Joe Iconis And Charlie Rosen Photo
Interview: Theatre Life with Joe Iconis And Charlie Rosen
by Elliot Lanes - Jun 18, 2025

The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical is a “gonzo” terrific new musical currently running at Signature Theatre through July 13th. Today’s subjects are two of the reasons the show is so successful.
Video: Watch 'Kaboom' From THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL Photo
Video: Watch 'Kaboom' From THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL
by Michael Major - Jun 17, 2025

Watch a video of 'Kaboom' from the Signature Theatre's DC premiere of The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical, with music and lyrics by Joe Iconis (Be More Chill, NBC’s Smash) and a book by Joe Iconis and Gregory S. Moss.
Review: THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL at Signature Theatre Photo
Review: THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL at Signature Theatre
by David Friscic - Jun 16, 2025

What can one say about Hunter S. Thompson, the infamous “Gonzo” journalist who wrote about the Hell’s Angels, The Kentucky Derby, who wrote prolifically in Rolling Stone Magazine and who plunged into Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (with drug -fueled adrenalin) and who embraced political passions in Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail? It seems quite a hell of a lot ---especially if one witnesses the jam-packed minutiae and layers of Hunter J. Thompson’s musically embellished narrative, --where autobiography, history and psychological facets of consciousness collide and converge in the explosive Signature Theatre production of The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical.
Video: 'Nixon's Big Number' from THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL Photo
Video: 'Nixon's Big Number' from THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL
by Michael Major - Jun 14, 2025

Signature Theatre has revealed a new look at the DC premiere of The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical, with music and lyrics by Joe Iconis (Be More Chill, NBC’s Smash) and a book by Joe Iconis and Gregory S. Moss (Indian Summer, Reunion). Check out brand new video of 'Nixon's Big Number' from the show.
Photos: THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL At Signature Theatre Photo
Photos: THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL At Signature Theatre
by A.A. Cristi - Jun 11, 2025

Signature Theatre has revealed first look photos of the DC premiere of The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical, with music and lyrics by Joe Iconis (Be More Chill, NBC’s Smash) and a book by Joe Iconis and Gregory S. Moss (Indian Summer, Reunion).
Video: First Look at THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL at Signatur Photo
Video: First Look at THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL at Signature Theatre
by Michael Major - Jun 10, 2025

Watch a preview of Joe Iconis' The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical at Signature Theatre! It stars Eric William Morris, George Abud, Darlesia Cearcy, George Salazar, and more.
THE OUTSIDERS Releases New Block of Tickets Through April 5 Photo
THE OUTSIDERS Releases New Block of Tickets Through April 5
by Stephi Wild - Jun 2, 2025

The Outsiders has released of a new block of single tickets for performances through April 5, 2026 at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre. Learn more about how to get tickets here!
Video: George Salazar Sings 'Brown Buffalo' From THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. Photo
Video: George Salazar Sings 'Brown Buffalo' From THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL
by Michael Major - May 29, 2025

As Joe Iconis' The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical prepares for its Washington DC premiere at Signature Theatre, watch an exclusive video of George Salazar performing 'Brown Buffalo.' 
Interview: Carmen Cusack on WICKED, BRIGHT STAR, & BULL DURHAM Photo
Interview: Carmen Cusack on WICKED, BRIGHT STAR, & BULL DURHAM
by Jeffrey Kare - May 6, 2025

Coming to Theatre Raleigh to perform in concert this Saturday night is Carmen Cusack. She returns returns to the area after starring as Annie in last season's Bull Durham: The Musical.
The Drama League Unveils 30 Recipients of Directors Project Fellowships Photo
The Drama League Unveils 30 Recipients of Directors Project Fellowships
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 5, 2025

The Drama League has revealed the thirty exceptional stage directors receiving the 2025 fellowships, assistantships, residencies, and programs collectively known as The Directors Project. Learn more!
Cast and Creative Team Set for JAJA'S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING at La Jolla Playhouse Photo
Cast and Creative Team Set for JAJA'S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING at La Jolla Playhouse
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 2, 2025

La Jolla Playhouse has revealed the cast and creative team for its production of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, by Jocelyn Bioh. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.
Eric William Morris and More to Star in THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON Photo
Eric William Morris and More to Star in THE UNTITLED UNAUTHORIZED HUNTER S. THOMPSON MUSICAL
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 2, 2025

Signature Theatre has revealed the cast and creative team for the DC premiere of The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets!
La Jolla Playhouse Names Jacole Kitchen as Recipient of 2025/26 Director Fellowship Photo
La Jolla Playhouse Names Jacole Kitchen as Recipient of 2025/26 Director Fellowship
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 9, 2025

La Jolla Playhouse has named Jacole Kitchen as the recipient of its 2025/2026 Director Fellowship position. She begins her two-year appointment in April 2025. Learn more about Kitchen here!
MEAN GIRLS & More Lead Boston's April 2025 Top Theatre Shows Photo
MEAN GIRLS & More Lead Boston's April 2025 Top Theatre Shows
by Team BWW - Mar 28, 2025

Boston is never lacking outstanding theatre, whether epic Broadway shows, engrossing dramas or bold fringe offerings. BroadwayWorld is rounding up our top recommended theatre every month. Selections for April 2025 include Mean Girls on tour and more.
James Monroe Iglehart to Host 'Mr. Abbott' Award Gala Honoring Christopher Ashley Photo
James Monroe Iglehart to Host 'Mr. Abbott' Award Gala Honoring Christopher Ashley
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 27, 2025

James Monroe Iglehart will host Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation's “Mr. Abbott” Award Gala honoring Christopher Ashley. Learn more about the event here.
Video: Behind the Dance of 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse Photo
Video: Behind the Dance of 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse
by Michael Major - Mar 17, 2025

Go behind the choreography of 3 Summers of Lincoln at La Jolla Playhouse. Watch a video of co-lyricist and co-choreography Daniel J. Watts break down the dancing in the new musical, alongside his co-choreographer, Jon Rua!
Diversionary Theatre Announces 2025 Annual Gala: THE OUT LOUD BALL Photo
Diversionary Theatre Announces 2025 Annual Gala: THE OUT LOUD BALL
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 13, 2025

Diversionary Theatre has announced its 2025 Gala: The Out Loud Ball. This year's annual fundraising event will be emceed by Tony Award Nominee and Drama Desk Award winning musical theater star Jenn Colella (Come From Away, Suffs).
Video: Behind the Music of 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse Photo
Video: Behind the Music of 3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse
by Michael Major - Mar 12, 2025

Watch a video of the creative team behind 3 Summer of Lincoln discuss the process behind adding music to Abraham Lincoln's story for the new musical, which has an original score of gospel, R&B, powerhouse anthems, and Broadway.
Photos: Roundabout Honors Danny DeVito at 2025 Gala Photo
Photos: Roundabout Honors Danny DeVito at 2025 Gala
by Jennifer Broski - Mar 11, 2025

Roundabout Theatre Company celebrated it 2025 Gala, honoring Danny DeVito. BroadwayWorld was there for the special night, which included a special performance from Josh Groban. Check out photos here!
More News

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 won several prestigious awards for his work in theater. He received the Outstanding Director of a Musical award from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for Come From Away. He also won the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical for Come From Away. Additionally, he was honored with the Outstanding Director, Resident Musical award from the Helen Hayes Awards for Sweeney Todd. Ashley earned the Outstanding Director - Musical award from the Drama Desk Awards for The Rocky Horror Show. His direction of Jeffrey garnered him an Obie Award, as well as the Outstanding Director award from The Lortels, which he also received for Fires in the Mirror.

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