Although Ryszard Ordyński (1878–1953) is regarded as one of the most significant Polish theatre and film directors, his reputation was eclipsed for a considerable period by other renowned figures. Focusing on Ordyński’s migrations around Europe and the United States between 1910 and 1918, during which he collaborated with Max Reinhardt, directed performances at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and created noteworthy productions independently, this chapter argues that, despite having multiple opportunities to do so, the Polish theatre failed to make use of his artistic potential or managerial expertise because of both his migration and unfortunate and complicated political circumstances.