The Artistry of Gilles Chiasson
Exploring the journey of a distinguished actor, composer, director, producer, writer, and educator.
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Biographical Foundation
Early Life and Origins
Gilles Chiasson was born on November 1, 1966, in Muskegon, Michigan. He is the youngest of five children. His parents, Dr. Tony Chiasson and Claire Chiasson, instilled a strong foundation; his father was a retired anesthesiologist, and his mother founded and led Michigan Dunes Montessori School. Both parents have French Canadian heritage, influencing the family's cultural background.
Academic Pursuits
Chiasson received his early education at Mona Shores Public Schools. He then pursued higher education at the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with High Distinction from the School of Music. This rigorous academic training provided the bedrock for his diverse artistic career.
Personal Life
Currently residing in Los Angeles, California, Gilles Chiasson is married to Sherri Parker Lee. Together, they have two sons. His family life provides a grounding influence amidst his dynamic professional endeavors.
A Multifaceted Career
Theatrical Acclaim
Chiasson first gained significant recognition as an actor, notably as an original cast member of the critically acclaimed musical RENT. His extensive theatre work also includes originating roles on Broadway, national tours, and numerous Off-Broadway and regional productions. He has since transitioned into directing, producing, and theatre administration, demonstrating a comprehensive engagement with the performing arts.
Cinematic and Television Ventures
Beyond the stage, Chiasson has made notable contributions to film and television. He served as Director of Development for Moresco Productions, working closely with Academy Award winner Bobby Moresco. His involvement spans television series development and co-producing feature films, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Musical Composition and Performance
Chiasson is also a accomplished composer, having written music, lyrics, and books for several original musicals. His work has been showcased in workshops and festivals across the country. Furthermore, he has released a solo CD and performed as a guest soloist with major symphony orchestras, highlighting his talents as a vocalist and musician.
Dedication to Education
In recent years, Chiasson has channeled his extensive experience into education. He has held significant positions as a Theatre Director, Department Chair, and Educator, shaping young talent. Currently, he serves in an administrative capacity within the school district, overseeing facilities and ensuring the smooth operation of educational and artistic programs.
Theatrical Contributions
RENT: An Iconic Role
Chiasson's portrayal of multiple roles, including Squeegie Man and Steve, in the original Off-Broadway production of Jonathan Larson's RENT earned him an Obie Award. He reprised these roles on Broadway and also took on the lead roles of Mark and Roger. His involvement began in the original workshop in 1994, making him a foundational artist in the creation of this landmark musical.[1]
Broadway Origins
He originated the role of Armand St. Just on Broadway in THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL and Corporal William McEwen in The Civil War (musical). Both productions were nominated for Tony Awards for Best Musical. Chiasson's performance in The Civil War garnered him an Outer Critics Circle Nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical.
Diverse Stage Experiences
His theatrical journey includes national tours, such as Marius in Les Misรฉrables and Jinx in Forever Plaid. He has originated roles in world premieres like Mike Reid's A House Divided and Joanne Lessener and Joshua Rosenbaum's Fermat's Last Tango. Chiasson also appeared in Baz Luhrmann's production of La bohรจme on Broadway and in Los Angeles.
Directing and Producing
As a freelance director, Chiasson has helmed productions such as Way of the Wiseguy and I'm Sorry. He served as Producing Director for LA's Reprise Theatre Company, leading to numerous Ovation Awards nominations and wins, including Best Production of a Musical for Kiss Me, Kate. He also directed theatre operations for The Performing Arts Education Centers (PAECs).
Film and Television Development
Development Executive
From 2005 to 2010, Chiasson was the Director of Development for Moresco Productions. In this capacity, he collaborated closely with Academy Award-winning screenwriter Bobby Moresco. His responsibilities included contributing to the evolution of scripts for both feature films and television projects.
Project Involvement
During his tenure at Moresco Productions, Chiasson was involved with projects such as the television series The Black Donnellys for NBC and the adaptation of the film Crash for Starz. He also served as a Co-Producer for the film The Kings of Appletown, which starred the Sprouse twins.
Musical Compositions and Performances
Original Musicals
Chiasson is the creator of the original musical CHRYSALIS, which has undergone workshops at prominent institutions like the Alley Theatre and New York Theatre Workshop. His other musical theatre works include FISHWRAP, MAPS, MOVE AHEAD, and NOW BOARDING, demonstrating a prolific career in musical theatre writing.
Vocal Performances
As a vocalist, Chiasson has performed as a guest soloist with esteemed ensembles such as the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the Philharmonia of the Nations, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, and the West Michigan Symphony Orchestra. These performances have allowed him to showcase his vocal talents on significant stages.
Solo Recording and Songwriting
He conceived and co-produced his debut solo CD, titled Slow Down. Additionally, Chiasson has collaborated with songwriters like Chris Roberts, co-writing songs such as "Hands Holding Hands" and "Sweet Mystery," the latter appearing on the LML Music compilation In Good Company.
Educational Leadership
Teaching and Departmental Leadership
From 2020 to 2024, Chiasson served as the Theatre Director and Department Chair at Valley International Prepatory High School in Northridge, Los Angeles. In this role, he taught acting and dramatic writing, produced and directed three theatrical productions annually, and managed the department's operations.
Facility Management
Transitioning from direct classroom instruction, Chiasson now works as the Facility Use Manager for the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. In this capacity, he oversees multiple sites, including four professional theaters, ensuring the effective utilization and management of these important educational and performance spaces.
Industry Engagement
Professional Development
Chiasson was a former Moderator of Bobby Moresco's Actors Gym in Los Angeles, a workshop dedicated to professional writers and actors. This role involved facilitating discussions and providing guidance within a community of working artists.
Founding Role
He is a founder and ex officio board member of the Adirondack Theatre Festival, a non-profit theatre organization established in Glens Falls, New York, in 1995. His foundational involvement highlights a commitment to fostering new theatrical works and supporting the arts community.
Television Appearances
Performance Broadcasts
As a member of original Broadway casts, Chiasson appeared in numerous televised performances and award ceremonies. These include broadcasts of RENT, The Scarlet Pimpernel, The Civil War (musical), and La bohรจme on shows like The Tony Awards, The Rosie O'Donnell Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and Late Show with David Letterman.
Family Feature
In 2021, Gilles Chiasson appeared with his wife, Sherri Parker Lee, and their two sons on the National Geographic game show Brain Games on the Road. This appearance offered a glimpse into his family life alongside his professional achievements.
Discography
Original Cast Recordings
Chiasson's contributions to major musical theatre productions are preserved on several cast recordings:
- RENT - The Original Broadway Cast Recording
- THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL - The Original Broadway Cast Recording
- LA BOHรME - The Original Broadway Cast Recording
- FERMATโS LAST TANGO - Original Cast Recording
Solo Work
His solo musical endeavors are represented by his debut CD:
- SLOW DOWN โ Slow Down Productions (CD Baby)
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References
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Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation in the fields of acting, music, education, or arts administration. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.