James Patrick Nelson is a multifaceted character actor, distinguished by his unique and resonant voice, which imbues his performances with a profound emotional depth that has captivated audiences. His impressive body of work encompasses a diverse array of award-winning films, which have garnered widespread critical acclaim on the international festival circuit and have been showcased theatrically on both the East and West coasts, earning him a reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor.
Born and reared in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Nelson had the unique opportunity to hone his craft at the prestigious Boston University School of Theatre, a renowned institution that has produced a long list of talented thespians.
Following his time at Boston University, Nelson set his sights on the bright lights of New York City, where he embarked on a distinguished theatre career that would see him share the stage with a diverse array of accomplished actors.
Throughout his career, Nelson has been fortunate enough to work alongside a veritable who's who of talented performers, including the esteemed Maggie Gyllenhaal, the talented Peter Sarsgaard, the versatile Ethan Hawke, the accomplished Joely Richardson, the multi-talented Bebe Neuwirth, the gifted Christina Ricci, the innovative Taylor Mac, and the seasoned Austin Pendleton, to name but a few.
Nelson's impressive repertoire boasts a nomination for an Innovative Theatre Award for Best Actor, a testament to his exceptional talent, for his electrifying performance in the world premiere of "Old Familiar Faces" within the esteemed New York City Fringe festival.
Furthermore, he shared in the accolades with his fellow cast members, as they collectively took home the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Ensemble for their mesmerizing portrayal of "Sense and Sensibility" at the historic Folger Theatre.
In a subsequent development, Nelson reprised his role in Bedlam's production of the same play, this time at the renowned American Repertory Theatre.
Most recently, he brought his remarkable acting skills to the world premiere of "Immortal Longings," the poignant and emotional final play by the late Terrence McNally, a true master of the craft.
Nelson, a multifaceted creative force, has dedicated his professional endeavors to the art of storytelling, with a specific focus on creating narratives that prominently feature and celebrate the experiences of individuals identifying within the LGBTQ+ spectrum and community.
Through his work as a screenwriter and actor, Nelson strives to bring to life compelling stories that showcase the richness and diversity of queer voices, perspectives, and experiences.
One of his most notable projects is the original series "For Years to Come", which is slated for production in 2021, offering a platform for exploring complex themes and characters within the LGBTQ+ community.
In addition to this series, Nelson is currently developing several feature screenplays that prioritize queer-centric narratives, further solidifying his commitment to amplifying the voices and stories of the LGBTQ+ community.