Joe came to directing through his work as an actor and writer and is considered “an actor's director” due to his understanding of the actors mind and his ability to allow the actors the freedom to explore while giving just enough guidance to help them find their way. Working extensively on new works he is especially at home when helping actors and playwrights navigate the unexplored terrain of a new play. Joe enjoys working on a wide range of types of theatre from a solo, multi-media piece like Elizabeth Van Meter’s Purpose Project, which has played multiple theatres across the country to a small black box production of I Love You, You’re Perfect Now Change to writing and directing a celebrity filled, one-night only extravaganza like the Hurricane Sandy benefit at the Gershwin Theater Broadway Blows Back hosted by Patrick Wilson with David Hyde Pierce, Mario Cantone, Chris Sieber and WCBS anchor Dana Tyler, among others.
My approach to directing is very collaborative. I believe in the magic that happens when talented, open people get into the room and influence each other. In my experience, the results of this kind of collaboration, has always resulted in something that is greater than the sum of its parts. I strive to create a safe, collaborative environment that allows everyone involved to take risks and discover their best work. After working together, I have had a playwright say to me, “You are the only person I would trust with my play”. And an actress I recently directed wrote to me afterward, “You are compassionate, smart, and collaborative... and I would follow you anywhere!!"