The Carver County arts community is mourning the unexpected loss of Michael Brindisi, a visionary director, actor and co-owner of Chanhassen Dinner Theatres (CDT), who passed away due to a respiratory illness on Wednesday, Feb. 5.
Brindisi had been affiliated with CDT since 1971, when he first performed as an accordion player in “The Matchmaker.”
Over the decades, his artistic leadership shaped the identity of the theatre, directing over 120 productions and bringing stories to life with unparalleled emotion and joy. He officially took over as artistic director in 1988 and later became co-owner in 2010, ushering in a new golden era for the theatre.
The news of his passing has left the CDT team devastated.
“This theatre wouldn’t be here without him and his partners,” shared Kris Howland, CDT public relations director. “He had a way of finding the heart of a musical like no one else, bringing joy to millions of people in Carver County and beyond.”
Despite the profound loss, the show will go on – as Brindisi would have insisted. With 550 audience members expected tonight and a grand opening later this week, the CDT team made the decision to continue performing in his honor.
“He would not want to disappoint even one person,” Howland said.
Brindisi’s journey in theatre was nothing short of extraordinary. Before his directing career, he performed as Kenickie in the National Tour of Grease in 1971, a role that changed his life just as he was on the verge of giving up acting.
That experience set him on the path that led to a lifetime of artistic contributions – including directing “Grease” four times at CDT. His legacy extends far beyond the Chanhassen stage, with directing credits across Minnesota and beyond, including Broadway revivals and national tours.
For now, no official tributes have been announced, but the CDT team is committed to honoring Brindisi’s extraordinary legacy. His influence will live on in the theatre he built, the stories he told, and the artists he inspired.
CDT shared in a statement: “We ask that you hold Michael’s wife, Michelle Barber Brindisi, his daughter Cat Brindisi-Darrow, son-in-law David Darrow and their young son, Henry Brindisi Darrow in your thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.”
