Gianmarco Soresi Reinvents Himself: From Phantom Auditions to Stand-Up Success

From Broadway Dreams to Stand-Up Comedy: A Journey of Transformation

Gianmarco Soresi's artistic evolution mirrors that of countless theater kids who once dreamed of shining on Broadway stages. Soresi is now a celebrated stand-up comedian, but his roots in musical theater run deep. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theater from the University of Miami, he ventured into the world of performance dreaming of a life filled with show tunes and stage lights.

In the video 'Gianmarco Soresi on That Time He Blew a Phantom of the Opera Audition, and Being a Theatre Adult,' Gianmarco discusses his vivid experiences in the theater world and how they shaped his transition into comedy, offering insight that we are excited to explore further.

However, his audition experience for Phantom of the Opera soon jolted him into reality. In a brutally competitive atmosphere where even talent seemed to falter, Gianmarco faced the harsh truth of a non-union audition—one that was as discouraging as it was eye-opening. “There were so many talented singers,” he recalls. “I wondered how I could break through.” It was this experience that prompted a pivot—the shift from aspiring Broadway star to successful stand-up comedian.

Theater Adult: A New Stage for Connection

Gianmarco's stand-up show, Theater Adult, is a celebration of everything he loves about musical theater combined with the vigor of comedy. The show is not merely for laughs; it serves as a venue for fellow theater enthusiasts to reconnect with their pasts. Audience interaction flourishes here, with guests recalling their theater experiences and even performing songs that hold special memories.

Having a pianist accompany his routines transforms stand-up into a subversive blend of musical nostalgia and humor. In a recent show featuring Alex Brightman from Beetlejuice, Gianmarco unearthed stories from the audience, revealing a common thread among theater kids—the yearning to perform. “Nothing brings us together like the magic of the stage,” Gianmarco mentions, underscoring the importance of shared experiences in fostering community.

Rediscovering the Stage Through Stand-Up

In blending his love for musical theater with comedy, Soresi highlights how individuals can transcend traditional boundaries. Having taken a break from singing, he is now returning to voice lessons, aiming to find harmony between his dual passions. As he trenchantly puts it: “I want to trick people into hearing me sing again.” This reflects a broader sentiment among many performers—a desire to reclaim their original passions while growing in new, unexpected ways.

The Proud Wearer of Theatrical Merchandise

Another charming quirk of Gianmarco’s reflects his devotion to theater: his impressive collection of theater-related shirts. From vintage finds to the latest Broadway merchandise, these shirts symbolize memories, experiences, and a love for the art that goes beyond mere fabric. “The crazy designs tell stories,” he explains, expressing a deep connection to the art and its broader community. His enthusiasm echoes that of many fans who view theater memorabilia as prized possessions filled with nostalgia.

Finding Humor in Struggle and Success

Soresi's journey isn't just about embracing his artistic roots; it’s also about acknowledging the challenges faced by theater artists in today's world. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and humor in facing rejection and navigating a fiercely competitive landscape. “Theater can feel sweet and nice, but in stand-up, I get to bring in that grit,” he notes, showing how humor can emerge from life's toughest moments.

Encouragement for Aspiring Artists

For budding performers, Gianmarco’s story is a beacon of hope. It encourages young artists to be flexible, to pivot, and to explore all avenues of creativity. “Once I started doing stand-up, my world opened up,” he reflects, urging others to find their unique calling within the performing arts. “There’s no roadmap for this; you have to create your own.”

As Gianmarco Soresi continues to trip the light fantastic between stage and stand-up, he exemplifies the way nostalgia and artistry can harmonize, encouraging all to celebrate their theatrical roots while forging ahead into new territory.