Person Biography:
Romano, a multilingual individual fluent in Italian and French, initially pursued a degree in engineering before being drawn to the world of film and theatre. The influence of Charlie Chaplin's "City Lights", Luis Bunuel's "The Exterminating Angel", and Frank McGuinness' play "Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme" played a significant role in shaping his passion for the arts.
Romano had the opportunity to study with the renowned director, Joe Dowling, former Artistic Director of the Guthrie in Minneapolis and the Abbey in Dublin, Ireland. He then relocated to New York City, dedicating five years to intensive theatre training at various institutions, including The Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute, Ron Stetson Studio, Robert Lewis studio workshop, and Stella Adler Theatre Conservatory. His graduating year was under the guidance of the legendary teacher, Mrs. Stella Adler, alongside notable individuals such as Alice Winston, Casey Keziah, Elizabeth Parish, and Jimmy Tripp.
Romano's breakthrough role came during his second year at the Conservatory, when he was encouraged to audition for the critically acclaimed Italian director Pupi Avati's film "Bix", which premiered at the 1991 Cannes Film Festival. His portrayal of Hoagy Carmichael earned praise from The Hollywood Reporter and Variety. However, a near-fatal accident soon after halted his career, and he was forced to recuperate.
Romano's return to acting was marked by a defining lead role in the Independent film "Burnt Eden", which earned him the Yves Montand Best Actor Award at the 1998 Kyiv International Film Festival. This momentum led to his lead role in the critically acclaimed television series "Omertà", garnering him a Best Actor Nomination for a Series Drama at the 1999 Gemini Awards and the 2000 Metro Star Awards.
Romano's subsequent roles included a Supporting ACTRA Awards Nomination for the film "Baby For Sale" in 2006 and a Best Actor Nomination for the film "The Overlookers" at the 2007 Minnesota SMMASH Film Festival.
Romano's dedication to his craft is deeply rooted in his upbringing by his blue-collar parents, Stefano and Carmina. His father, a combat Partigiano in WWII, and his mother, a resilient garment factory laborer, instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance, which he continues to embody as a journeyman actor.
