Here at Broadway Black we’ve wanted to really sit down and pick the brains of the Leads & Legends who have paved the way and those who are still laying gold down the streets of Broadway. We have finally gotten a chance to do so and we could not be more thrilled for it to begin with the phenomenal Ben Vereen. If you’re even questioning who Ben Vereen is, then you need to watch this interview.
If you remember the powerful moment in an episode of Fresh Prince where Will Smith cried because his biological father “didn’t want him”, which is a memory many of us have from childhood, Vereen portrayed that father. Also the Tony Award winners’ list of credits is long. He truly paved the way for Broadway Black to even exist.
A Tony and Drama Desk Award winner for his renowned performance in Bob Fosse’s Pippin, Mr. Vereen’s Broadway credits include: Wicked, I’m Not Rappaport, Chicago, Hair,Fosse, Jelly’s Last Jam, Jesus Christ Superstar, and A Christmas Carol. In 2010, Ben completed a successful run in the world premiere of Fetch Clay, Make Man, directed by Des McAnuff (Jersey Boys) at the McCarter Theatre. Film: Idlewild,All That Jazz, Sweet Charity, Funny Lady (Golden Globe nomination), Why Do Fools Fall in Love, Once Upon a Forest. Television: The legendary television miniseries Roots, How I Met Your Mother (recurring), Grey’s Anatomy (Prism Award), Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, Hallmark’s An Accidental Friendship (NAACP nomination),Tenspeed and Brown Shoe, Louis Armstrong – Chicago Style,Ellis Island (Golden Globe Nomination), Anne Rice’s Feast of All Saints, Zoobilee Zoo, and Star Trek – The Next Generation. Ben’s most recent feature film was Paramount Studios’ Top Five starring Chris Rock and is co-starring with Richard Gere in the upcoming Time Out Of Mind.
Watch our interview below as we talk about his upcoming show @ 54 Below (March 17th -21st) and highlight his career and influence in our community and beyond.
Join Ben Vereen at 54 Below for an unforgettable evening of song and story. The Broadway legend returns to our stage with his acclaimed show Steppin’ Out, including new songs! The New York Daily News wrote, “Vereen blows onto the stage with a gale force ready to sweep the audience up, up and away”… so be prepared to be knocked off your feet by this riveting performance. Get Your Tickets HERE!
