Michelle Best, a gifted and accomplished actress, boasts a rich and extensive background in the entertainment industry, having earned a prestigious Master of Fine Arts degree from the renowned Actors' Studio at the esteemed New School University.
With a fervent passion for generating her own creative content, Michelle took the initiative to develop, direct, and executive produce the innovative scenario-based sitcom pilot "Halfway There," which garnered significant recognition as an "Official Selection Finalist" in the 2009 New York Television Festival, a premier platform for showcasing and celebrating exceptional television programming.
Furthermore, Michelle's outstanding work was once again celebrated and acknowledged when she was honored with the prestigious distinction of being invited as an "Official Artist" in 2011, a testament to her dedication, creativity, and skill in the field of television production.
Michelle's extensive and impressive resume boasts a significant amount of professional experience in the entertainment industry, with a particularly notable highlight being her leading role in multiple productions of "Halfway There". This remarkable achievement is further bolstered by her notable guest appearance alongside the talented Wanda Sykes and Cynthia Nixon in the Amazon Prime series "Alpha House", which stars the renowned John Goodman.
In addition to her impressive work in television, Michelle has also demonstrated her versatility as a performer by originating the role of "Sarah" in Dan McCormick's critically acclaimed play "Saving the Life of Jimmy McCLintock". This highly acclaimed production premiered at the esteemed Actors' Studio and is currently in the process of being developed for further production.
Michelle has a notable list of Off-Broadway credits, with a standout role as the Rev. E. R. George in the production "Women in the Pit", which garnered a total of two prestigious AUDELCO nominations, specifically for "Dramatic Production of the Year" and "Outstanding Ensemble Performance".
Additionally, her captivating portrayal of Ellie Blank in the Billie Holiday Theatre's production "Faith On Line" also received the same esteemed nominations, further solidifying her impressive range and talent as a performer.
Michelle is a multifaceted individual who, when not captivating audiences with her stage presence or captivating screens with her performances, dedicates herself to being a devoted mother to her two teenage daughters. She resides in the vibrant neighborhood of Midtown Manhattan, where she is actively involved in raising her daughters and nurturing their growth.
In addition to her multifaceted career, Michelle is also a creative force to be reckoned with. Drawing inspiration from her own personal experiences, she has crafted the comic series "Just Breathe", a poignant and powerful exploration of her journey through widowhood in the bustling metropolis of New York City.
Furthermore, Michelle has also brought her unique perspective and experiences to the world of live performance, with her sold-out one-woman show "Close the Door: Open the Widow". This critically acclaimed production masterfully blends humor and pathos, as Michelle delves into the complexities and challenges of grief, offering a profound and cathartic experience for audiences.
Michelle is a highly engaged and dedicated community member, who has made it a priority to contribute her time and talents to various organizations and initiatives. One of her most notable commitments is her role as an active moderator for the SAG Foundation in NYC, where she lends her expertise and guidance to help facilitate important discussions and events. Additionally, Michelle is also a passionate advocate for the arts, and she has been instrumental in hosting and organizing events for the Professional Performing Arts School, providing a platform for young artists to showcase their talents and connect with like-minded individuals.
