André DeShields

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André DeShields (born January 12, 1946 in Baltimore, Maryland) is an American actor, singer, dancer, choreographer, and college professor.

DeShields graduated from the Baltimore City College high school and received his BA degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Master of Arts from New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study, where he serves as an Adjunct Professor.

DeShield's early Broadway career was less than successful. In 1973, Warp closed after eight performances and Rachael Lily Rosenbloom (And Don't You Ever Forget It) never made it to opening night. He had better success choreographing Bette Midler's concert at the end of the year.

In 1975, DeShields was cast in the title role of The Wiz. Additional Broadway credits include Ain't Misbehavin', the Duke Ellington revue Play On!, The Full Monty, and Prymate. He also conceived, wrote, directed, and starred in André DeShield's Haarlem Nocturne.

DeShield's regional theatre credits include Play On!, The Full Monty, Waiting For Godot, The Man Who Came to Dinner, Death of a Salesman, and Dusyanta: A Tale of Kalidasa.

DeShield's television credits include Another World, Cosby, Sex and the City, Great Performances, and Law & Order. He won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Special Achievement for his performance in the 1982 NBC broadcast of Ain't Misbehavin'.

DeShield gave the 2007 commencement address at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, his alma mater.

[edit] Awards and nominations

  • 2007 Obie Award for Sustained Excellence of Performance
  • 2004 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play (Prymate, nominee)
  • 2001 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical (The Full Monty, nominee)
  • 2001 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical (The Full Monty, nominee)
  • 2001 Outer Critics Circle Award (The Full Monty, winner)
  • 1997 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical (Play On!, nominee)
  • 1997 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical (Play On!, nominee)
  • 1978 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical (Ain't Misbehavin', nominee)

[edit] External links