Title: Instructor (Retired)
Location: Dayton, Ohio, United States
Basil Lee Drew, retired instructor, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Artists for dedication, achievements, and leadership in performing arts.
With over four decades of experience to his credit, Mr. Drew has built a distinguished career in the performing arts, excelling in acting, directing, producing, teaching, and dramaturgy. His career spans roles as an instructor of drama and English theater literature, and throughout his career, he has worked both behind and in front of the camera, including portraying a brain surgeon in the upcoming faith-based film “Our Crossroads,” set for release in October 2024. In addition to his work in film, his professional background includes collaborations with a diverse range of industries, such as Rolex, and taken his across the world, teaching and performing in Switzerland, Japan, Canada, and the United States. As a leader in theater education, he has held the role of chairperson of theater arts at several prestigious institutions, including Parker School in Hawaii, Iolani School in Honolulu, Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, Hammonasset School in Connecticut, and Maumee Valley Country Day School in Toledo. His influence also extends to higher education, where he has served as a guest director at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Mr. Drew began his career directing four short films for the State of Ohio while on a full scholarship at Bowling Green State University. Early in his career, he wrote, produced, and acted in 239 episodes of the “Lee Drew Children’s Hour” for the Canadian Broadcasting Company, and contributed to the national broadcast “Theater 1030” for CBC Radio. His work in Ohio also included serving as a film critic for WOHO Radio, where he gained recognition for accurately predicting 17 Academy Award recipients. His acting credits span from the screen to the stage, having appeared in films such as “Disturbed” alongside Malcolm McDowell, and he served as associate producer and actor in the faith-based film “Our Crossroads.” He takes immense pride in his stage work, particularly as the artistic director for Kizarr Repertory Company in Hawaii, with one of his most rewarding roles was portraying Dr. Dysart in “Equus” during Western Washington’s Summer Stock, a performance he fondly recalls as one of his most challenging. Over the course of his career, he has directed over 100 stage productions, and his acting skills were recognized when he received The Blackburn Award for his portrayal of Colonel Jessup in Aaron Sorkin’s “A Few Good Men.”
Reflecting on his path, Mr. Drew considers his most notable achievement to be the opportunity to teach outstanding students, some of whom have been nominated for Academy Awards and have won Tony and Emmy Awards, including Maggie Gyllenhaal, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Charlie Matthau. He attributes his success to his tenacity and positive attitude. He attributes his success to his tenacity and ability to adapt and overcome challenges. Looking to the future, he is seeking a dramaturg position where he can leverage his experience to provide guidance and support during dress rehearsals. While open to directing opportunities, particularly at theaters in Beavercreek, Ohio, his primary focus is on a consultative role. He is also committed to staying involved in film and production, sharing his knowledge by mentoring and training theater crews. He also plans to create more films and direct a stage play.
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