About Me

My name is Ben Cunis, and I make movies and plays and teach artists to do the same. I graduated from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts with an MFA in Film/TV Production, and the Catholic University of America with a BA in Drama. I am currently the Managing Director at Synetic Theater in Arlington, VA.

Before USC, I worked for 10 years in professional theater in Washington, DC, acting, directing, writing, fundraising, and fight choreographing, with my primary work being with the amazing artists at Synetic Theater.

I’m dedicated to making the creative process more human and sustainable for individuals, teams, and the industry as a whole. I care a lot about creating respectful spaces where everyone can express themselves authentically and do their best possible work, then go home and live their lives knowing they’ve done their best.

DP - Nate Jakus, Produced by Julian Bridges, Choreography by Francesca Jandasek
Still from “Orpheia” a music video and short dance film with Dan Istrate and Francesca Jandasek

Lighting Design by Brittany Diliberto, Costumes by Kendra Rai, Set by Daniel Pinha
Beauty and the Beast – directed for Synetic Theater in 2014, with Vato Tsikurishvili and Irinka Kavsadze

DP - Omar Juarez, Production Design by Austin Johnson, with Original Art by Ari Bach
From “Drawing” – a short psychological horror currently in post-production. With Kelly Tighe, Mary Hughes, Jeremiah Musgrove, and Dan Istrate.

Ballet Noire
From “Ballet Noire” with Mair Mulroney and Reed Campbell