Role

:

Performer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

October 10, 1946 in Miami, FL

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

Ben Vereen is a renowned American actor, singer, and dancer who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on October 10, 1946, in Miami, Florida, Vereen grew up in Brooklyn, New York, where he discovered his passion for performing arts at a young age. He started his career as a performer in the 1960s and has since become one of the most celebrated artists in the industry. Vereen's early years were marked by a series of struggles and challenges. He was raised by his mother, who worked as a maid, and his father, who was a nightclub performer. Despite his parents' financial difficulties, Vereen was determined to pursue his passion for performing arts. He attended the High School of Performing Arts in New York City, where he honed his skills in singing, dancing, and acting. In 1965, Vereen made his Broadway debut in the musical "Golden Boy," where he played the role of a young boxer. The show was a huge success, and Vereen's performance was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. He went on to star in several other Broadway productions, including "Hair," "Jesus Christ Superstar," and "Pippin." Vereen's talent as a singer and dancer was also recognized in the film industry. He appeared in several movies, including "Sweet Charity," "All That Jazz," and "Funny Lady." His performance in the 1977 television special "Ben Vereen: His Roots" earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program. Throughout his career, Vereen has also been a prominent figure in the world of classical music. He has performed in numerous concerts and operas, showcasing his exceptional vocal range and musicality. In 1981, he starred in the Broadway production of "Jelly's Last Jam," a musical tribute to jazz legend Jelly Roll Morton. Vereen's performance in the show earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical. In 1992, Vereen was invited to perform at the White House for President George H.W. Bush. He sang a medley of songs from the musical "Pippin," which was one of his most successful Broadway productions. The performance was a huge success, and Vereen received a standing ovation from the audience. Vereen's contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with several awards and honors. In 2011, he was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the American theatre. He has also received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Television Movie, Mini-Series or Dramatic Special for his performance in the 1998 television movie "The Temptations." In addition to his work in the performing arts, Vereen has also been an advocate for various social causes. He has been involved in several charitable organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the United Negro College Fund. He has also been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and has spoken out against discrimination and prejudice. In conclusion, Ben Vereen is a true icon of the performing arts industry. His exceptional talent as a singer, dancer, and actor has earned him numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. His contributions to the world of classical music have been particularly noteworthy, and his performances have inspired and entertained audiences around the world.

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