Her Story
About Christina
Christina Harris is a theater director, educator, and founder of Sonder Theatre Company, a nonprofit professional theater organization dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for people to share their stories through the arts. With more than 20 years of experience in theater, Christina has built her career around directing, teaching, and nurturing emerging talent. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Barat College of DePaul University and brings a deep commitment to using theater as a vehicle for creativity, connection, and personal expression.
Since 2006, Christina has served as Drama Director at Frostig School in Pasadena, California, where she works with elementary, middle, and high school students with diverse learning needs, including autism, ADHD, social-emotional challenges, and anxiety disorders. She also teaches at California School of the Arts – San Gabriel Valley, working with both neurodiverse and neurotypical students. Through her teaching and direction, Christina has helped thousands of young people find their voices and develop confidence through performance, while creating an environment where every student can participate and feel heard.
In 2024, Christina expanded her impact by founding Sonder Theatre Company, where she serves as Artistic Director. The company focuses on community theater projects that bring together staff, parents, local residents, and performers, including individuals experiencing the stage for the first time. Christina considers nurturing talent one of her greatest professional achievements and is passionate about demonstrating how storytelling and the arts can foster connection, empowerment, and healing. Her work reflects a lifelong dedication to making theater accessible, inclusive, and transformative for both performers and audiences.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Christina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to tenacity, energy, and passion. I am deeply passionate about what I do, and my capabilities, enthusiasm, and ability to find inspiration help me stay motivated and continue moving forward.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received came from my theater professors, who recognized that I was a teacher at heart rather than primarily a performer. Their insight guided me toward education, where I discovered my true calling.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to stand confidently in their capabilities and never make themselves smaller to accommodate others. Trust your knowledge, skills, and experience, and never pretend you do not know something simply to make someone else feel more comfortable.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are communication, authenticity, and kindness. I strive to remain open to people’s stories and perspectives, embracing their experiences and energy without judgment.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.