Birth Place: Baltimore, MD, USA
Anita Gillette is an American actress, singer, and dancer who has had a long and successful career in Broadway, television, and film. Born on August 16, 1936, in Baltimore, Maryland, Gillette grew up in a family of performers and began her own career in show business at a young age.
Gillette's Broadway debut came in 1959, when she appeared in the musical "Gypsy" as a member of the chorus. She went on to appear in several other Broadway productions throughout the 1960s, including "All American," "Carnival!," and "Jimmy."
In 1972, Gillette received critical acclaim for her performance in the Broadway production of "Cabaret," in which she played the role of Sally Bowles. Her performance earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical.
Gillette continued to work on Broadway throughout the 1970s and 1980s, appearing in productions such as "They're Playing Our Song," "Brighton Beach Memoirs," and "Chapter Two." In 1994, she received another Tony Award nomination for her performance in the musical "Mr. Wonderful."
In addition to her work on Broadway, Gillette has also had a successful career on television. She has appeared in numerous television shows throughout the years, including "Quincy M.E.," "The Love Boat," "Murder, She Wrote," and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit."
Gillette is perhaps best known to television audiences for her recurring role on the hit show "The Cosby Show," in which she played the character of Cliff Huxtable's mother-in-law. She also appeared in the spin-off series "A Different World."
In film, Gillette has appeared in several movies throughout her career, including "Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice," "Moonstruck," and "She's the One." She has also lent her voice to several animated films, including "The Emperor's New Groove" and "The Aristocats."
Gillette's talents extend beyond acting, as she is also an accomplished singer and dancer. She has performed in numerous cabaret shows and concerts throughout the years, showcasing her impressive vocal range and dancing skills.
In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Gillette is also a philanthropist and has been involved with several charitable organizations throughout her career. She has worked with organizations such as Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and the Alzheimer's Association.
Gillette has been recognized for her contributions to the arts and entertainment industry with several awards and honors. In 2006, she was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame, and in 2014, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs.
At the age of 85, Gillette continues to work in the entertainment industry and inspire audiences with her talent and dedication. Her impressive career and contributions to the arts have cemented her as a beloved and respected figure in the world of entertainment.
Anita GilletteThe Big Meal
Anita Gillette , Chapter Two
Anita GilletteRussell Patterson’s Sketchbook
Dancers Over 40 will celebrate its 30th anniversary as an organization with its first ever – and 54 Below’s first ever roast. The event will focus on Mr. Broadway himself, DO40 member and former board member Lee Roy Reams!
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Join Doris Dear for a glamorous celebration of her 10-year career in entertainment at The Triad Theater on May 8th. Featuring a star-studded lineup including Sandy Duncan and Don Correia, this unforgettable evening promises nostalgia, showmanship, and pure entertainment.
On January 16, 2024, Moreclacke Publishers (Robert Armin, President) released the hardcover, Kindle and audio version (performed by the great Anita Gillette) of MARY & ETHEL...and Mikey Who? by Stephen Cole. Check out photos from the launch party here!
Next week, 54 BELOW, Broadway's Supper Club and 2022 Tony Awards Honoree for Excellence in the Theatre, will present some of the brightest stars from Broadway, cabaret, jazz, and beyond. 54 Below celebrates Broadway musicals and writers of the past and present, promoting an ongoing engagement with their work.
On Thursday, January 25th at 7:00 PM, an encore performance of JERRY ORBACH'S BROADWAY will be presented at 54 Below, 254 West 54th Street, NYC 10019. Learn more about the show here!
Dear Santa: Thanks for the gifts called music in NYC, letting us 'wrap' our ears around a touch of Oklahoma-bred sense and sensibility, lots of holiday cheer, and musical theatre projects that have a connection to a famous hotel ....all part of a week in the winter wonderland of Manhattan's live presentations.
After four years at Broadway World Cabaret, quite a collection of photos has been amassed. These are the gasp-worthy pics.
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Join Urban Stages for the 15th Annual WINTER RHYTHMS 2023, featuring 22 shows, over 11 days, and more than 100 performers. From cabaret to jazz and everything in between, this award-winning series is a must-see event for music and performance lovers. Don't miss out on this spectacular showcase!
Anita Gillette is hosted by Ricky Ritzel, Jason Henderson sparkles with Noel Coward songs, Therese Lee recalls encounters with Hollywood stars and her own dramas, and some kids and teens strut their stuff at Don't Tell Mama.
Winter Rhythms @ Urban Stages has announced two very special upcoming events as part of its “2023 Winter Rhythms” series, the award-winning music festival at Urban Stages Theater.
Join award-winning singers Teresa Fischer, Jenny Greeman, and Mary Sheridan for 'SING AGAIN!' at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on November 11. Experience an afternoon of Broadway and pop gems that celebrate love and belonging.
Broadway star Karen Mason celebrates her collaboration with longtime music director Christopher Denny at Chelsea Table + Stage this month.
CHELSEA TABLE + STAGE will present Broadway, recording and concert star Karen Mason in an encore presentation of her hit show “30… And Counting” on Thursday, September 28 at 7:00 PM.
It's never too late to put the spotlight on the Tony Awards and people nominated for them. Read all about it at BroadwayWorld.com in the NYC cabaret section.
Anita Gillette has appeared on Broadway in 12 shows.
Anita Gillette has not appeared in the West End.
Anita Gillette has been nominated for several awards, including Outstanding Featured Actress at The Lortels for "The Big Meal," Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play at the Tony Awards for "Chapter Two," and a Performance award at the Theatre World Awards for "Russell Patterson’s Sketchbook."
Anita Gillette won a Performance award at the Theatre World Awards for Russell Patterson’s Sketchbook.
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