JACOB DUNHAM
Award-winning Director, Educator & Theatre Administrator
Born and raised in Lovell, Maine, Jacob is an award-winning Theatre Director and Artist with a career spanning from Broadway, Off-Broadway, Regional Theatre, Opera, and TV/Film productions. He is a two-time nominee of the prestigious Josephine New York Theatre Award for Best Direction Of A Play, and Best Overall Theatre Production. Highlighted credits include: The Great Look (Manhattan Repertory Theatre), Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 (Broadway), Chicago (Broadway), On The Town (Broadway) Bullets Over Broadway (Broadway Tour), Dishwasher Dreams (Off-Broadway) and Hello Again (Off-Broadway). Throughout his career, Jacob has had the honor of working and studying alongside legendary director/choreographers Susan Stroman and the late Ann Reinking. His comprehensive training includes studies at The University of The Arts in Philadelphia, PA, The Society of American Stage Fight Directors, and he is a proud graduate of the Temple University School of Drama, where he earned degrees in Theatrical Directing and Business. Currently, Jacob serves as the Founding Artistic Director of The National Broadway Theatre in Grand Rapids, MI, and is a dedicated faculty member at The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre: School Of Theater Arts, where he teaches classes in Acting, Musical Theater, and Dance.
Awards Include:
Broadway World Award Best Direction Of A musical (New Hampshire): Newises (Winner)
UOA Artistic Director's Award (Winner)
AIM Theatre Award (Winner)
F.A. Drama Award (Winner)
Lions Club International Malcom Wilson Award (Winner)
Josephine Award For Excellence In NY Theatre: Best Direction (Nomination)
Josephine Award For Excellence In NY Theatre: Best Overall Production (Nomination)
WCSH Channel 6 News - Cover Story - Josephine Awards 2019
Alec Kerr, Theatre Critic
- The Conway Daily Sun
"This is a large cast with sometimes dozens of people onstage. Yet, it doesn't feel busy or cluttered, which is credit to Dunham's articulate direction...It is simply stunning!"
(Newsies Critic Review, 2023)
"Dunham has gotten fun performances from all of his actors who all he ideally cast!"
(Young Frankenstein Critic Review, 2022)
Aimee Frechette, Artistic Director
- Arts In Motion theater Co.
"Working with Jacob is truly a collaborative experience. He is the epitome of a team player who looks to his counterparts to help shape the piece of art he sets out to create. Everyone grows while in his presence. He empowers actors to discover their brilliance, often uncovering talents previously hidden. Jacob ignites the spark of creativity in all and encourages those fortunate enough to work with him to soar beyond their limits."
Blake Kile
- Broadway Designer
"Jacob's insightful direction and keen understanding of how light can enhance narratives truly creates a collaborative atmosphere. His willingness to explore creative ideas and incorporate lighting as an integral part of storytelling not only elevates the visuals but also enriches the overall production.“
