Gavin Creel is a highly acclaimed American actor, singer, and Broadway star known for his dynamic performances in musical theater. With a career spanning over two decades, Creel has earned a reputation for his versatility, vocal prowess, and engaging stage presence. He is best known for his work in Broadway productions, including “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Hair,” “The Book of Mormon,” and “Hello, Dolly!”, earning multiple awards and nominations along the way.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 18, 1976, in Findlay, Ohio, Gavin Creel developed an early passion for music and theater. He attended Findlay High School before pursuing formal training in musical theater at the prestigious University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Musical Theater in 1998. His time at the university helped him hone his craft and laid the foundation for his successful career on Broadway.
Broadway Breakthrough: “Thoroughly Modern Millie”
Creel made his Broadway debut in 2002 with the Tony Award-winning musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” In the show, he played Jimmy Smith, the charming love interest of the titular character, Millie Dillmount. His performance was widely praised, and Creel received his first Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical, which helped establish him as a rising star in the theater world.
“Hair” and Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Rights
In 2009, Creel starred as Claude Hooper Bukowski in the Broadway revival of the classic rock musical “Hair.” His performance garnered critical acclaim, earning him another Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical. “Hair” not only showcased his vocal talents but also aligned with his strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. During this time, Creel became an outspoken supporter of the marriage equality movement and co-founded Broadway Impact, an advocacy group dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ rights through the theater community.
“The Book of Mormon” and International Success
One of Gavin Creel’s most notable roles came in 2013 when he starred as Elder Price in the West End production of “The Book of Mormon.” The satirical musical, written by the creators of “South Park,” was a massive hit, and Creel’s portrayal of the overly ambitious and idealistic Elder Price earned him the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2014. This marked a significant international achievement in his career and solidified his status as a global theater star.
“Hello, Dolly!” and Tony Award Win
In 2017, Creel took on the role of Cornelius Hackl in the Broadway revival of “Hello, Dolly!”, starring alongside the legendary Bette Midler. His performance was lauded by critics and audiences alike, showcasing his comedic timing, vocal range, and charisma. For this role, Creel finally won his first Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical, a testament to his dedication and talent in the world of musical theater.
Other Stage and Screen Work
Beyond his major Broadway successes, Gavin Creel has appeared in a variety of other theater productions, including “She Loves Me”, “Waitress”, and “Into the Woods”. He has also ventured into television, with guest appearances on shows like “Eloise at the Plaza” and “American Horror Stories.” Additionally, Creel is a singer-songwriter, having released his own albums, including “GOODTIMENATION” and “Get Out”, which showcase his skills as a solo artist.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Gavin Creel is openly gay and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ equality throughout his career. His co-founding of Broadway Impact exemplifies his dedication to activism and his commitment to using his platform to promote social change. Creel has spoken out about the importance of representation and diversity in the arts, and he remains a prominent voice in the theater community.
Conclusion
Gavin Creel’s career is a testament to his talent, versatility, and passion for theater. With a Tony Award, an Olivier Award, and numerous other accolades under his belt, Creel continues to be a shining star on Broadway and beyond. His commitment to advocacy and his dedication to his craft have made him an influential figure in the world of musical theater, inspiring both his peers and the next generation of performers.