Role

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Performer

Birth

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January 12, 1946 in Baltimore, MD

 

Andre De Shields is a renowned American actor, singer, and director who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on January 12, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, De Shields grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. His mother was a schoolteacher, and his father was a tailor who also played the trumpet. De Shields was exposed to music and theater from a young age, and he developed a passion for the arts that would shape his career. De Shields attended Baltimore City College, where he was a member of the school's choir and drama club. He went on to study at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. While in college, De Shields continued to pursue his love of music and theater, performing in various productions and honing his skills as a performer. After college, De Shields moved to New York City to pursue a career in the arts. He quickly made a name for himself in the theater world, appearing in numerous productions on and off Broadway. One of his early breakthrough roles was in the 1975 production of "The Wiz," a musical adaptation of "The Wizard of Oz" with an all-black cast. De Shields played the role of the Wiz, and his performance earned him critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, De Shields continued to work in the theater, appearing in productions such as "Ain't Misbehavin'," "The Full Monty," and "Play On!" He also began to branch out into other areas of the arts, including film and television. He appeared in movies such as "Extreme Measures" and "The Cosby Show," and he lent his voice to the animated series "The Wild Thornberrys." Despite his success in other areas, De Shields remained committed to classical music and continued to perform in concerts and operas. In 1997, he appeared in the New York City Opera's production of "The Most Happy Fella," playing the role of Tony. His performance was widely praised, and he received a Drama Desk Award nomination for his work. In 2001, De Shields took on one of his most challenging roles to date when he played the title character in the opera "Saint Louis Blues." The opera, which was written by Wynton Marsalis, tells the story of the life and music of jazz legend W.C. Handy. De Shields's performance was a tour de force, and he received rave reviews for his portrayal of Handy. In addition to his work as a performer, De Shields has also made a name for himself as a director and choreographer. He has directed productions of "The Full Monty" and "Play On!" and has choreographed shows such as "The Wiz" and "Ain't Misbehavin'." His work as a director and choreographer has earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards. Throughout his career, De Shields has received numerous awards and honors for his work in the arts. In addition to his Tony Award nomination for "The Wiz," he has received two Drama Desk Award nominations and a Theatre World Award. He has also been inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame and the National Black Theatre Hall of Fame. Despite his many accomplishments, De Shields remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to perform in concerts and operas, and he is always looking for new challenges and opportunities to grow as an artist. His passion for classical music and the arts has inspired countless people around the world, and his legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.

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