News Summary
John Cullum, a 95-year-old actor from Knoxville, will take the stage in ‘The Dresser’ at the Clarence Brown Theatre from August 27 to September 11. This performance not only highlights Cullum’s incredible talent but also features his son, J.D. Cullum. A highly regarded figure in American theater with multiple Tony Awards, Cullum’s career spans decades. His participation in this production showcases his enduring passion for the arts and the legacy of talent within his family.
Knoxville, Tennessee – John Cullum, a 95-year-old actor and singer from Knoxville, is set to star in an upcoming performance of “The Dresser” at the Clarence Brown Theatre, running from August 27 to September 11. This theater production not only showcases Cullum’s remarkable talent but also features his son, J.D. Cullum, adding a personal touch to the performance.
Cullum’s impressive career spans across theater, television, and film, boasting notable appearances in productions such as “Shenandoah,” “The Scottsboro Boys,” and “Mad Men.” Throughout his career, he has earned two Tony Awards and significant recognition for his roles on television shows like “Law and Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Northern Exposure,” and “ER.” The Broadway veteran was honored when a theater on 54th Street in New York City was renamed after him in 2015 in recognition of his contributions to the performing arts.
The Clarence Brown Theatre Company has been a prominent establishment since its inception in 1974 under the direction of Anthony Quayle. Its history includes producing shows that have gone on to perform in New York, fueling discussions about the possibility of “The Dresser” also finding a venue on the larger stage.
Cullum, born in 1930, graduated from the University of Tennessee with a bachelor’s degree in speech, where he began his acting journey by participating in around a dozen plays. His early artistic inclinations were evident during his time at Knoxville High School, where he served as an ROTC officer, and later, he became the president of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity while in college.
Despite spending much of his career in New York City, Cullum retains a strong bond with Knoxville, where he frequently visits. Most of his family still lives in the area, and he often reflects fondly on his hometown while pursuing his acting career. J.D. Cullum, also an accomplished actor, has appeared in notable films such as “Reversal of Fortune,” “Forever Young,” and “61*,” showcasing a family legacy in the performing arts.
At 95, Cullum continues to refine his craft, regularly revisiting his past performances to glean insights that help him evolve as an artist. His enduring passion for acting is evident in his commitment to projects like “John Cullum: An Accidental Star,” a retrospective of his career that is available for streaming.Â
Cullum’s illustrious Broadway career took off in the 1960s and began with a successful audition for a role in “Camelot,” helping to establish him as a prominent figure in American theater. His performances in Broadway musicals and plays have left an indelible mark on audiences and the industry.
The anticipation surrounding “The Dresser” and John Cullum’s participation is elevated by discussions between Blake Robison, the current artistic director of the Clarence Brown Theatre, and New York producers regarding the show’s future. As Cullum approaches this milestone, he embodies the spirit of resilience and artistry, proving that age does not diminish talent. His role in this upcoming production is a testament to his remarkable career and a celebration of his contributions to the arts.
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times: John Cullum – An Accidental Star
- Playbill: John Cullum and Son to Act in The Dresser
- New York Post: In My Library – John Cullum
- Encyclopedia Britannica: John Cullum
- Record Online: Q&A with John Cullum
