Robert, a multifaceted and accomplished actor, currently residing in Chicago, Illinois, has a storied past that spans from his humble beginnings in New Haven, Connecticut.
Robert's illustrious career has unfolded with remarkable depth and diversity, as he has successfully undertaken more than one hundred distinctive roles, expertly demonstrating his extraordinary aptitude for playing a wide range of characters.
Notable among these impressive performances are his captivating portrayals of Big Daddy in the acclaimed production of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof", Moe in the critically acclaimed "Riverview", and Dean Strauss in the thought-provoking "Spinning Into Butter", all of which were presented at the esteemed Goodman Theatre.
Robert, a distinguished member of the esteemed Steppenwolf acting ensemble, has had the unparalleled privilege of bringing to life an astonishing array of characters over the course of three decades. Throughout his illustrious career, he has had the unique opportunity to perform in an impressive repertoire of over 40 roles, each one a testament to his remarkable versatility and dedication to his craft.
Within the Steppenwolf ensemble, Robert has had the pleasure of playing a diverse range of characters that have left a lasting impression on audiences. One such standout performance was his portrayal of Botvinnic in Lee Blessing's poignant drama "A Walk in the Woods". This role allowed him to tap into the complexities of his character, bringing a depth and nuance to the performance that resonated deeply with audiences.
Another notable performance was his depiction of Father Lux in the critically acclaimed production "Our Lady of 121st Street". This role showcased Robert's ability to bring a sense of gravitas and compassion to his characters, as he expertly navigated the intricacies of the complex relationships between the characters on stage.
Finally, Robert's unforgettable performance as Pa Joad in the powerful production of "The Grapes of Wrath" was a tour de force that left audiences in awe. His masterful portrayal of the patriarchal figure, imbued with a sense of resilience and determination, was a testament to his exceptional range as a performer.
Robert's impressive theatrical career has taken him to numerous renowned institutions beyond his work at Steppenwolf, with notable performances at esteemed establishments such as Northlight Theatre, Drury Lane Water Tower, Profiles Theatre in Chicago, Dallas Theatre Center, the Players at the University of North Carolina, Saint Louis Repertory Theatre, Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival, the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, a testament to his versatility and dedication to his craft.
Notable among Robert's impressive repertoire of performances is his iconic portrayal of The Devil in the renowned musical production of Stravinsky's "The Soldier's Tale", a collaborative effort with the esteemed St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. In addition to his work on stage, Robert has also had the distinction of appearing in various Broadway productions, including the critically acclaimed adaptations of Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath", the poignant drama "The Song of Jacob Zulu", the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical "Carousel", and the timeless American classic "Death of a Salesman".
Robert's impressive career has been marked by a plethora of prestigious awards and nominations, including the esteemed William and Eva Fox Fellowship Grant, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. In addition, he has garnered numerous Jeff awards and accolades, a clear indication of his standing within the industry. Furthermore, Robert's impressive literary output has been recognized through the publication of seven full-length plays, as well as a multitude of 10-minute radio plays, showcasing his versatility and range as a writer.
As a member of The Playwrights Center in Minneapolis, Robert spent two formative years refining his skills and contributing to the growth and development of innovative new works, a valuable experience that has undoubtedly had a lasting impact on his artistic vision and approach.
Robert's professional journey has been marked by a profound sense of belonging to esteemed organizations within the entertainment industry, specifically Actor's Equity, SAG-AFTRA, and The Dramatist's Guild, thereby underscoring his unwavering passion for the art of acting and his unrelenting pursuit of excellence in his craft.
As a member of Actor's Equity, Robert has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the highest standards of artistic integrity, rigorously adhering to the organization's mission to promote and protect the rights of actors.
Moreover, his affiliation with SAG-AFTRA has allowed him to further hone his skills as a performer, while also advocating for the interests of his fellow artists, thereby fostering a sense of community and solidarity within the industry.
Finally, his membership in The Dramatist's Guild has provided Robert with a unique opportunity to engage with other writers, directors, and producers, thereby expanding his creative horizons and allowing him to stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in the world of theatre and performance.
Through his involvement with these esteemed organizations, Robert has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the art of acting, his passion for storytelling, and his unwavering commitment to the craft, ultimately solidifying his position as a respected and accomplished member of the entertainment community.
