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Ben Vereen
Award-Winning Entertainer
Ben Vereen
Award-Winning Entertainer
Biography
Ben Vereen has been a formidable force in the entertainment industry for over 60 years. With a Tony Award highlighting his illustrious career, this versatile actor, dancer, singer, and philanthropist has captivated audiences from the bright lights of Broadway to unforgettable moments on screen. Vereen's groundbreaking performances have influenced the cultural landscape and inspired countless fans across generations.
A legendary figure in the world of theater, Vereen has continually redefined the art of performance. His iconic roles in productions like Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Fosse, and Wicked have left an enduring impact on the stage. His tour-de-force performance in Pippin - earned him the highest honors in theater—the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.
Television viewers know Vereen from unforgettable roles such as Chicken George in Roots and Will Smith’s deadbeat biological father in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. The latter role featured in an emotionally charged episode entitled “Papa’s Got a Brand New Excuse”, continues to be widely shared and discussed clip online. More recently, he has appeared in popular shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, NCIS, How I Met Your Mother, Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Good Fight, and the upcoming series The Gray House, produced by Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman.
On the big screen, he has starred in films such as Sweet Charity, All That Jazz, Funny Lady, Why Do Fools Fall in Love, Top Five, and Time Out of Mind. Ben has also captivated audiences worldwide, from intimate solo performances to grand symphonic concerts. A trailblazer, he was the first to clinch the coveted "Entertainer of the Year simultaneously," "Rising Star," and "Song and Dance Star" awards from AGVA.
Vereen’s illustrious career has been marked by numerous awards, including Emmy nominations for Roots and Intruders: They Are Among Us, and Golden Globe nominations for Ellis Island and Funny Lady. His self-titled variety show, Ben Vereen: His Roots, won seven Emmy Awards. In recent years, he has been honored with the Juneteenth Legacy Award by the Broadway League and the Sidney Poitier Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mentored by legendary figures like Sammy Davis Jr., Bob Fosse, and Chita Rivera, Ben Vereen is committed to passing on his knowledge and experience. Throughout his career, he has guided and supported countless young artists. From collaborating with talented individuals such as Usher, André 3000 and Big Boi of Outkast, Terrence Howard, and Brandy to his roles as a Master Teaching Artist and Artistic Advisor at the Broadway Theatre Project, Vereen has consistently dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation of talent.
Ben's influence extends to lecture halls. As one of the nation's most sought-after speakers, he connects with audiences of all ages, sharing his wisdom on diverse topics. Ben's words resonate deeply, from overcoming adversity and the power of arts in education to the rich tapestry of Black history and the transformative journey of recovery. His engaging style and strong sense of social consciousness leave a lasting impact, inspiring and motivating listeners to reach their full potential.
Speaker Videos
Meet Ben Vereen
On Black History
All Stars 2011 Gala Benefit
Speech Topics
A Lifetime on Stage and Screen: A Retrospective with Q&A
Ben Vereen, a legendary performer renowned for his dynamic stage presence and captivating screen performances, offers a retrospective of his illustrious career. From his early days to his most recent projects, Vereen shares personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights into his iconic roles and artistic collaborations. This engaging presentation culminates in a Q&A session, allowing the audience to delve deeper into Vereen’s extraordinary journey.
Stories & Song with Ben Vereen
Join legendary performer Ben Vereen for song and storytelling. Through captivating anecdotes and soulful melodies, Vereen will share his personal story, offering a glimpse into the life and career of a true icon. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the power of live performance as he weaves together personal stories and timeless songs.
Masterclass in Acting & Broadway Performance
In this immersive masterclass, legendary performer Ben Vereen shares his decades of experience on Broadway. Participants will delve into the core elements of acting, including technique, vocal training, dance, and stage presence. Students will gain a deep understanding of these essential skills through practical exercises and demonstrations. Vereen will offer personalized coaching, working one-on-one with each participant on a 90-second performance piece. Q&A sessions with the entire group provide additional opportunities for learning and networking.
Grief, Recovery & the Power of Perseverance
Join Ben Vereen as he shares his deeply personal journey through adversity. From a near-death experience to the heartbreaking loss of two children, Vereen offers candid insights into the power of resilience and the importance of mental health. Discover how he overcame immense challenges, found strength in adversity, and emerged as a beacon of hope. His inspiring message will resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
From Roots to Now
Ben Vereen, renowned for his role as Chicken George in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, will delve into the historical significance of this landmark production and its lasting impact on popular culture. He will explore the evolution of Black history and its contemporary relevance.
Art as a Catalyst for Change
Ben Vereen will discuss the power of art in shaping the Black experience, from documenting history to inspiring social change. He will discuss the importance of representation and the role of artists in challenging societal norms, drawing on his own experiences as a performer and advocate for social justice.
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