GARY JOHN La ROSA has worked successfully as a theatre professional for over twenty-five years. A New York City native and UCLA graduate, his diverse career has brought him to four continents.

Formerly a performer (member AEA, SAG, and AFTRA), Gary John considers extended stints in Hollywood, Las Vegas, South Africa and New York to be highlights, culminating with Broadway and National tour appearances.

Directing and choreographing as early as his student years, he discovered the reward in research and collaboration. As his desire to create and challenge himself grew, he decided to forego performing altogether. 

As a SDC director-choreographer, he has enjoyed working in dozens of venues including off-Broadway, regional theatre, industrial shows, dinner theatre and summer stock. A guest artist at many universities, he especially enjoys nurturing young talent.

Gary John spent six seasons as resident director-choreographer for Montclair Musical Theatre in New Jersey where his inventive revivals of classic musicals received much acclaim. While continuously employed as a freelance artist at theatres across the country, he is also currently developing several exciting original projects in NYC. When time permits, he conducts theatrical workshops and seminars in schools and universities, in addition to coaching privately.
 
Gary John frequently stages productions of Fiddler on the Roof, recreating the original Jerome Robbins direction and choreography. He considers himself part of the Fiddler… family having performed in the 25th and 30th anniversary productions on Broadway and National tour and having been involved in well over two dozen productions worldwide. It is an honor to carry on the "Tradition."

Over the years, Gary John has received the Kennedy Center ACTF, Clifton Webb, Phoenix, Judy, and Connecticut Critic’s Circle Awards along with two Loewe fellowships. He has received numerous nominations for the Kevin Kline, Robby, Ostrander, Perry, ACT and ariZoni Awards.

He resides happily in New York City with his longtime companion, Philip, and their rescued dog, Gizmo.

 

 

“Director Gary John La Rosa has done a tremendous job with this production. The pace is swift, there is a lot of humor and the emotional highs and lows come shining through. I defy anyone to have a dry eye when the show comes to an end.”

Jane Holahan – Lancaster New Era