A graduate of Miami University of Ohio’s esteemed Theatre program, Michael’s adventures in Show Business include over 40 years as an award-winning professional Actor, Singer, Director, Playwright, and Producer culminating in the formation of The Avante Garage Theatre Company, which he has served as Artistic Director for many seasons at various venues in Nashville, New York City, Los Angeles, and most recently Lima, Ohio.
In 1992, Michael opened The Avante Garage Dinner Theatre along with long-time partners and collaborators Joe Correll, Jamey Green, and Kathy Shepard. Since 1983, there have been more than 30 professional productions of his over 20 plays and musical comedies, including two productions in New York City: An Equity sanctioned staged reading of “The Melancholy Dane!” (Hamlet, the Musical) at the famed Circle in the Square and a cabaret production of his Roaring 20’s musical “The Speakeasy."
Additionally, Michael has written and directed numerous musical and comedy revues for various venues and branded clients and was the creator of the longest-running show in Nashville history, the award-winning Avante Garage Sketch Comedy and Improv Show. Along with Shepard and Green, Michael wrote the song “Home Again” for the ABC Television Show “Vacation Creation."
In Los Angeles, CA, Michael wrote, directed, and produced many, many, many Television Shows and Commercials. (See IMDB.com for a full list of credits.)
His most recent projects include three new plays: “One Night Stand,” “Message in a Bottle,” and “Translation,” all of which received successful staged readings in Los Angeles and his debut novel: “21.” He is already hard at work on Novel #2!
Nashvile First Night Award for Continued Excellence in Original Theatre
Nasville First Night Award for Best Direction of a Musical
Nashvile First Night Award for Best Actor in a Musical
Nashvile First Night Award for Lifetime Achievement Award in Theatre
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