Andrew Burnap: From Stage Star To "Snow White" & Beyond!
Can a phone call change the trajectory of a life? For Andrew Burnap, a seemingly ordinary ring on April 1, 2013, while he was attending a human sexuality class at the University of Rhode Island, heralded an extraordinary turn of events, ultimately leading him to the world of Broadway and beyond.
Born on March 5, 1991, Andrew Burnap is an American actor whose journey from the quiet of South Kingstown, Rhode Island, to the bright lights of the stage is a testament to talent, perseverance, and a bit of serendipity. His career, marked by both stage and screen success, showcases a versatility that has earned him critical acclaim and a Tony Award. Burnaps story offers an inspiring look at the making of a modern actor.
Burnaps early foray into the world of acting started with performances on stage. He began his professional stage career in the Public Theater's revivals of "King Lear" in 2014 and "Troilus and Cressida" in 2016. These early roles offered a solid foundation for his blossoming career. Burnap's work in these productions helped to sharpen his skills and gain the attention of casting directors and theatregoers alike.
His film debut came in 2018 with the period drama "The Chaperone," where he played Floyd, a role that introduced him to a wider audience. This was quickly followed by appearances in the Apple TV+ series "Wecrashed" (2022) and the FX on Hulu limited series "Under the Banner of Heaven" (2022), which showcased his ability to embody a range of characters.
But it was his portrayal of Toby Darling in Matthew Lopezs play, "The Inheritance," that cemented his place in the theatrical canon. He received the ultimate accolade in the industry the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his performance as Toby. This award recognized the depth and nuance he brought to a role that resonated deeply with audiences and critics. This remarkable play, which explores themes of love, loss, and legacy within the gay community, further solidified Burnap's reputation as a gifted actor.
The actors involvement in the upcoming Marc Webbs ambitious reimagining of the 1937 classic, "Snow White," where he plays Jonathan, the love interest of Rachel Zegler's Snow White, marks another significant milestone. His upcoming role in "Snow White" suggests a continuing ascent in his career.
Burnap's journey provides lessons for aspiring actors, emphasizing the importance of honing their craft, embracing opportunities, and remaining true to their artistic vision.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrew Burnap |
| Born | March 5, 1991 |
| Birthplace | South Kingstown, Rhode Island, USA |
| Height | 5'10" (1.778 m) |
| Age (as of March 5, 2024) | 33 years old |
| Profession | Actor |
| Education | University of Rhode Island, Yale School of Drama |
| Awards | Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play (The Inheritance, 2020) |
| Known For | "The Inheritance" (Toby Darling), "Snow White" (Jonathan), "Wecrashed", "Under the Banner of Heaven" |
| Film Debut | The Chaperone (2018) |
| Stage Debut | King Lear (2014) |
| Marital Status | Details not available |
| Reference | Wikipedia |
Burnaps career started in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. He was a student at the University of Rhode Island, and it was during his time there, specifically on April 1, 2013, that a phone call changed his life. Ron Van Lieu, then the chair of the acting program at Yale School of Drama, was on the other end of the line, inviting him to join the prestigious program. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his formal training and the formalization of his craft.
Before the phone call and the subsequent acceptance into Yale, Burnap had been developing his skills and passion for acting. Theatre professor Paula McGlasson recalls his freshman year at the University of Rhode Island when he auditioned for the theatre department's production of the musical "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee." This shows early dedication to honing his craft.
Burnap's work in "The Inheritance" is especially significant. The play, which explores themes of love, loss, and the legacy of the AIDS crisis within the gay community, provided him with a role that allowed him to showcase his full range of acting abilities. He portrays a gay writer navigating relationships and the complexities of modern life. For the Inheritance workshop, Burnap would read the part of toby darling, even with the understanding that he would not be cast in the role initially. He eventually brought a uniqueness to his role.
The process of bringing "The Inheritance" to the stage was transformative for Burnap. Matthew Lopez, the playwright, recognized Burnap's unique qualities early on, even when he was considered too young for the part initially. This acknowledgment highlights the actor's distinct approach to his craft and his ability to connect with the character on a profound level.
Burnap's success in "The Inheritance" led to his winning the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play at the 74th Annual Tony Awards. This recognition was not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for the play, which was celebrated for its powerful storytelling and its exploration of themes of identity and community.
Burnap's recent work includes roles in "The Front Room," A24's psychological horror, the Apple TV+ series "Wecrashed," and "Under the Banner of Heaven." His upcoming role in "Snow White" further demonstrates his versatility. The actor is cast in Marc Webb's ambitious reimagining of the 1937 classic, playing Jonathan, the love interest of Rachel Zegler's Snow White.
Looking at his upcoming projects, it is clear that Andrew Burnap's career is on an upward trajectory. His ability to transition seamlessly between stage and screen roles, combined with his undeniable talent, has set him apart. Burnap's career continues to evolve, with each role adding to his impressive resume and solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary acting. His journey from the University of Rhode Island to the world of Broadway offers a compelling story of an actor who is ready to leave a mark on the industry.
