Thomas Ryan and John Stanisci formed Invictus Theater over a  cup of coffee in a diner in midtown Manhattan. Both Tom and John shared a dream to bring an exciting, visceral experience to the New York stage.

 

Their first production of 'Murder in the First' in 2005 was a huge success, receiving seven Innovative Theater award nominations, winning two. That first collaboration with playwright Dan Gordon led to the birth of the Broadway show, ' Irena's Vow'.

 

'Irena's Vow' was launched off Broadway in fall 2008. The play starred four time Tony nominee Tovah Feldhsuh in the role of Irene Opdyke. The production sold out every seat for every single perfomance for 11 weeks straight.  Soon after, The play was asked to be presented at the United Nations to a congregation of over 200 delegates from around the world; the first play to do so in the history of the UN.

 

'Irena's Vow' premiered on Broadway in Spring 2009 at the majestic Walter Kerr Theater. The show was  directed by Michael Parva and produced by Daryl Roth and Jimmy Nedelander.

 

In 2012, Invictus  (in association with the Directors Company) remounted 'Murder in the First' off Broadway at 59East59th street theater.  The play was directed once again by Michael Parva with Chase Mishkin and Barbara and Buddy Freitag producing. The show featured Tony nominee Chad Kimball (Memphis) in the lead role of Willie Moore.

 

Currently, Invictus is preparing to launch several new projects, all in keeping with the original mission to bring exciting dramas to the new york stages!

 

So, the two guys who shared a vision over a cup of coffee got to make their Broadway debuts together. Sometimes dreams do come true!

Thomas Ryan (co founder and co- artistic director of Invictus Theater) spent six years in the US Marine Corp.  After his tour in the Corp, he auditioned and was accepted to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. He soon began his acting career. Still feeling there was something missing in his training, Tom began studying with the brilliant acting teacher Robert X. Modica.  It was this decision which made all the difference in his career. 

 

Thomas has gone on to co-star in the Broadway production of: “Irena’s Vow” .  Off-Broadway: “Murder In The First”.  Regional: “Proof”, “Tuesday’s With Morrie”.  Guest starred in over sixty television series including "24" and "Elementary";  recurring in the hit NBC series: “LA LAW” . He has co-starred in numerous films, including “The Relic”, “The Principal”, “Diary Of A City Priest”, and many others.

Talent representive: Dulcina Eisen and Assoc.  (212)-355-6617