Michael McNeilly is a remarkably versatile artist, demonstrating exceptional skill and proficiency across a broad spectrum of creative endeavors, including acting, writing, composition, direction, and education.
Born in the small town of Tamms, he spent the early years of his life immersed in the community, until the age of fifteen, when his family made the decision to relocate to a new home.
His parents, C. J. and Mary White McNeilly, played a pivotal role in shaping his early life and instilling in him the values and principles that would later guide his artistic pursuits.
His father, C. J. McNeilly, was the proprietor of the McNeilly Pharmacy, a beloved institution in the community, where he provided essential goods and services to the local residents.
His mother, Mary White McNeilly, was a dedicated educator and administrative professional, who worked as a teacher and secretary at the local school, fostering a sense of community and learning among the students and staff.
These formative experiences, combined with the guidance and support of his parents, laid the foundation for Michael McNeilly's future success as a multifaceted artist.
Michael's parents, who had passed away in the 1970s, left him to navigate the complexities of life on his own, without the guiding influence of his family. This pivotal event in his life served as a catalyst for Michael to chart his own course, and he has since made a significant impact in the entertainment industry.
With his remarkable talents, Michael has excelled in multiple areas, including writing, composing, and directing. His impressive portfolio boasts a range of productions, each showcasing his exceptional skill and creativity. One of his most notable achievements is the world premiere of Pirate Play, which took place at Carroll College, a testament to his innovative approach and dedication to his craft.
Furthermore, Michael has also made a notable contribution to the world of musical theatre with his adaptation of Rapunzel, which had its debut in San Diego. This critically acclaimed production is a testament to Michael's ability to craft compelling stories and melodies that captivate audiences of all ages.
Michael has concurrently pursued a multifaceted career, extending beyond his creative pursuits to include a distinguished acting career, marked by a remarkable string of appearances in over 40 stage productions.
These theatrical credits boast an impressive array of world premieres, featuring notable works such as The Death and Life of Jesse James, The Collected Works of Billy the Kid, and Hollywood Tales.
Furthermore, Michael's television resume boasts a diverse range of credits, including memorable appearances on popular series like MacGyver, Knots Landing, Family, and The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.
Michael has had the privilege of collaborating with a vast array of accomplished individuals, boasting an impressive repertoire of co-stars that includes the esteemed Jack Lemmon, the talented Eddie Albert, the renowned Paul Sorvino, the versatile Alec Baldwin, the distinguished Alfre Woodard, the accomplished Richard Anderson, the skilled Doug Sheehan, and the accomplished Gregory Harrison.
In a recent endeavor, Michael embarked on an extraordinary eight-day journey down the Toba River in British Columbia, accompanied by the respected Robert Kennedy Jr. and the esteemed Klahoose Tribe, as part of a PBS National Geographic Special.
Michael, a dedicated educator, has enjoyed a distinguished career as a guest artist in theatre, having had the privilege of sharing his expertise with numerous esteemed institutions of higher learning across the United States.
His impressive resume boasts a plethora of universities, including Ohio University, U.C.L.A., University of Southern California, Cal Poly, Washington State University, University of Montana, Pomona College, and Louisiana State University, where he has been a guest artist since 1981.
Currently, Michael resides in the charming city of Helena, Montana, where he serves as a faculty member at Carroll College, teaching a range of courses including acting, directing, improvisation, and stage combat.
In his personal life, Michael is happily married to the lovely Nancy Harper, a former Miss Montana, and the couple is blessed with a beautiful daughter, Emily.
