Michael D. Jablonski is an award-winning director, choreographer, educator, and Broadway veteran whose career has taken him around the world and across nearly every corner of the United States. Having performed professionally in 49 states (every state except Hawaii) and 15 countries, Michael brings a uniquely expansive perspective to the training and mentorship of the next generation of musical theatre artists.
A proud member of the Broadway community, Michael appeared in The Book of Mormon, West Side Story, Cry-Baby (Original Broadway Cast), and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, and was featured in the motion picture adaptation of The Producers. His national touring credits include Matilda (Dance Captain/Supervisor), The Book of Mormon (1st & 2nd National), West Side Story(50th Anniversary World Tour), Saturday Night Fever, Doctor Dolittle, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Victor/Victoria, and Brigadoon. Throughout his performing career, he has worked alongside some of Broadway's most celebrated artists while developing the versatility, resilience, and professionalism that now define his teaching philosophy.
Today, Michael serves as Assistant Professor and Head of the BFA Musical Theatre Program at the University of Central Florida, where he leads curriculum development, student recruitment, and professional training initiatives. He holds an MFA in Theatre Directing from Florida State University and previously had academic appointments at Brenau University, Florida State University, and Elon University.
As an award-winning director and choreographer, Michael has built a reputation for creating emotionally compelling, visually dynamic productions that place storytelling at the center of the musical theatre experience. His directing and choreography credits include Legally Blonde, Next to Normal, Godspell, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, The Bridges of Madison County, Rent, Mamma Mia!, Footloose, Urinetown, and multiple productions of West Side Story.
Beyond the rehearsal room, Michael is a nationally recognized mentor, clinician, and industry educator. As Associate Faculty with Theatrical Intimacy Education (TIE), he is a leader in consent-based performance practices and intimacy choreography. He regularly teaches masterclasses and intensives across North America focused on musical theatre performance, audition technique, acting through song, dance storytelling, career preparation, practical guide on swinging a show, and the realities of sustaining a successful career in today's entertainment industry.
Michael is a proud member of Actors' Equity Association (AEA), Canadian Actors' Equity Association (CAEA), American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA), and the Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD), and is SAG-AFTRA eligible.
Michael believes that success in the arts has no single definition. Guided by his personal motto, "You define your success," he encourages artists to forge their own path—whether that leads to Broadway, national tours, regional theatre, cruise ships, theme parks, film and television, education, or entrepreneurial pursuits. His goal is to empower students to build careers rooted in authenticity, purpose, and personal fulfillment while creating a life and artistic journey that reflects their individual vision of success.
www.MichaelDJablonski.com