Damian Grzeskowiak is a seasoned theatre director, educator, actor, and arts leader with more than three decades of experience in directing plays and musicals across schools, community theatres, and regional stages. Known for his artistry in script interpretation, casting, and production design, he has directed an extensive range of works—from classics like Les Misérables, Into the Woods, and The Sound of Music to regional high school premieres of Between the Lines, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and The Phantom of the Opera.

In addition to his directing work, Damian has dedicated over twenty years to teaching and mentoring students at Marcus Whitman Central School District, where he developed innovative theatre and English curriculum, designed productions, and cultivated a thriving Fine & Performing Arts program. His passion for theatre education has guided countless young performers, many of whom have gone on to pursue careers in the arts.

A recipient of multiple RBTL Stars of Tomorrow Awards and TANYS acting honors, Damian has also served as a stage manager, designer, and arts advocate. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to fostering collaboration, inspiring creativity, and celebrating the transformative power of live performance.

Philosophy: 

Theatre, for me, has always been about connection—between story and audience, between director and performer, and between the art itself and the community it serves. Over the past three decades, I have had the privilege of directing a wide spectrum of productions, from beloved classics like Les Misérables, Into the Woods, and The Sound of Music to regional premieres such as Between the Lines and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Each project, whether a large-scale musical or an intimate play, begins with my belief that theatre must be truthful, collaborative, and transformative.

As a director, my approach balances vision with inclusivity. I see my role not only as a storyteller but as a guide—helping actors, designers, and crew members discover their own artistry within the framework of the production. I value script analysis, rehearsal techniques, and performance coaching as tools to unlock authenticity, but I also believe that the rehearsal room must be a place of trust, experimentation, and growth. Additionally, I don't mind getting my hands dirty. I am there at every tech build (costumes sets, lights, etc.) through the end of the show. By fostering strong relationships with cast and crew, I aim to create an environment where creativity flourishes, challenges are embraced, and the work becomes greater than the sum of its parts.

My artistry extends beyond the stage into arts education and community engagement. For more than twenty years, I have been an educator and arts leader, developing curriculum, mentoring students, and integrating the performing arts into school culture. I am passionate about cultivating the next generation of theatre artists and audiences, ensuring that young people not only learn the techniques of performance but also discover the empathy, discipline, and joy that theatre provides.

Ultimately, my artistic vision is grounded in the belief that theatre should ignite conversation, inspire imagination, and build community. Whether through staging a contemporary work, reimagining a classic, or guiding students toward their first standing ovation, I strive to create productions that resonate deeply and remind us of the power of live performance.