Bryan W. Simon is a renowned director, writer, and visualist who has garnered widespread acclaim and numerous awards throughout his illustrious career.
Most recently, Bryan directed the cinematic adaptation of the Tony Award-winning Broadway show, Jay Johnson: The Two and Only!, which showcases his exceptional skill in translating stage productions to the big screen.
Prior to this, Bryan directed his third film, the comedy documentary I'm No Dummy, which marks a significant milestone as the first feature-length documentary on ventriloquism.
Before that, Bryan directed the critically acclaimed indie feature Along For The Ride, which won the prestigious Best of Fest award at the Saguaro Film Festival International.
In addition to his film work, Bryan has also directed several critically acclaimed short films, including The Second Room, which won the Gold Award at WorldFest Charleston.
Bryan's fascination with filmmaking began at a very young age, when he purchased his first Super 8 camera and started making short films with his friends Rick Kendrick and Kimmer Olesak. This early experimentation with film led to the creation of the surreal short film Loose Fitting Dresses Are Easiest To Get Into, which was heavily influenced by the works of Luis Bunuel and Salvador Dali.
From 1984 to 1993, Bryan served as the Founder and Artistic Director of the nationally renowned Chicago area Stage Two Theatre Company. Under his direction, the company produced a wide range of plays that stimulated thought, aroused the imagination, and reflected a strong social conscience.
In addition to his work with Stage Two, Bryan also toured the country portraying an unjustly imprisoned photographer in the one-man play La Loma, which won three Drama-Logue Awards, including Outstanding Achievement in Performance, and received numerous Critics Choices.
From 1994 to 2000, Bryan served as the Artistic Director for the national Coast To Coast Theatre Company. He also founded and directed the Ray Bradbury Play & Film Festival in Waukegan, Illinois.
Bryan made his professional acting debut at the age of 11 in a production of The Prince And The Pauper. He directed his first professional stage play at the age of 17, directing the regional tour of the children's show Jack and the Wishing Beans for the Roundtree Players. Throughout his career, Bryan has directed numerous professional stage productions, including world premieres, and has developed over 40 world premieres with his theater companies.
