Donn Swaby, a native-born American actor, burst into the world on August 20th, 1973, within the bustling confines of Queens, New York, a city that would serve as the backdrop for his early years and shape his formative experiences. The child of Donald Sr. and Nesline Swaby, both Jamaican immigrants who had made the United States their new home, Donn's early life was influenced by the rich cultural heritage of his parents' homeland.
Donn's professional journey commenced at Boston University, where he was nurtured by the guidance of his esteemed acting professor, Professor Jon Lipsky. With Professor Lipsky's encouragement, Donn was inspired to audition for the pivotal role of Thami Mbikwana in the New Rep's production of Athol Fugard's critically acclaimed play, My Children! My Africa!
As he pursued his academic endeavors, Donn dedicated himself to a rigorous schedule, balancing his morning classes with afternoon and evening rehearsals. This arduous yet disciplined approach allowed him to hone his craft, laying the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in the performing arts.
Throughout his tenure at Boston University, Donn had the opportunity to participate in a multitude of professional productions, with one of the most notable being the Boston premiere of George C. Wolfe's groundbreaking play, The Colored Museum, which was expertly directed by the esteemed Professor James Spruill.
He also had the privilege of being a part of the production of Stop and Frisk, another notable play that was skillfully directed by the same Professor Spruill, further solidifying Donn's impressive experience in the world of professional theatre during his time at B.U.
Donn also secured a position as a stand-in and photo double for the talented actor Ruben Santiago-Hudson in the notable film Blown Away, which boasted an impressive cast, including the esteemed Jeff Bridges, the renowned Forest Whitaker, and the iconic Tommy Lee Jones.
Notable individual Donn, a talented and accomplished individual, received a prestigious Dean's Scholarship for a span of two consecutive years, which enabled them to pursue their academic endeavors without any financial constraints. This remarkable achievement was a testament to their exceptional academic prowess and dedication to their craft.
As Donn progressed through their academic journey, they demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for the performing arts, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Acting in the year 1995. This impressive academic feat was further underscored by their outstanding academic record, which was marked by a cumulative grade point average of 3.6, a true reflection of their unwavering commitment to excellence.
Donn's academic achievements are a testament to their unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and unrelenting passion for the performing arts.
Donn's professional journey began with a triumphant culmination of academic pursuits, as he ventured forth to hone his craft in the realm of Off-Broadway, regional theater, radio, television, and film, thus inaugurating a storied career marked by numerous appearances in a diverse array of artistic mediums.
He initially made his mark in the cinematic world with a pivotal speaking role in the highly acclaimed film G.I. Jane, which boasted an all-star cast featuring Demi Moore and Viggo Mortensen, and was masterfully directed by the visionary Ridley Scott.
Donn made his mark in the entertainment industry by co-starring alongside esteemed actors Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Viola Davis, Kimberly Elise, and the late Gloria Foster in a stage production of the classic play A Raisin in the Sun, directed by the accomplished Jack Hoffsiss, at the prestigious Williamstown Theatre Festival in the year 1999.
This notable performance marked the beginning of Donn's successful career, which would later see him land the role of Chad Harris on the popular NBC soap opera Passions, catapulting him to national fame and recognition.
Donn is widely recognized for his multifaceted acting career, which has encompassed a diverse range of roles in various mediums. In addition to his notable performances in the feature films Nora's Hair Salon and its sequel Nora's Hair Salon II, he has also made memorable guest appearances on numerous popular sitcoms and dramas.
Beyond his esteemed acting career, Donn has demonstrated a multifaceted talent by concurrently pursuing a passion for music, with the guitar being his instrument of choice since the tender age of fourteen.
In a departure from the spotlight, Donn has also made significant contributions to the literary world by authoring pieces for the renowned online publication, The Huffington Post, as well as serving as a staff writer for the alternative women's magazine, Melt Magazine for Women, showcasing his versatility and range as a writer.
Noted playwright and screenwriter, Donn, has amassed an impressive repertoire of stage plays and screenplays, with one of his notable works being adapted into a feature film, aptly titled "Buds for Life", which premiered in the year 2008.
Donn's multifaceted talents and passions continue to flourish, as he seamlessly transitions between various creative pursuits, effortlessly embracing the dynamic roles of actor, writer, and musician. With an unwavering enthusiasm, he continues to hone his craft, pouring his heart and soul into each project that comes his way.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Donn's love for the great outdoors is evident in his frequent excursions into the wilderness, where he can be found hiking through trails and marveling at the breathtaking beauty of nature. His appreciation for live music is another key aspect of his personality, with him often seeking out new and exciting performances to attend and immerse himself in the energy of the crowd.
A voracious reader, Donn is constantly seeking out new books and authors to expand his knowledge and broaden his horizons. His love for reading is matched only by his desire to give back to his community, as he regularly dedicates his time and energy to volunteering for various causes and organizations.
In addition to his many other pursuits, Donn has also developed a passion for helping students develop their own writing skills, particularly when it comes to crafting compelling biographies and monologues. With his guidance and expertise, he inspires young minds to tap into their creativity and bring their unique stories to life.
