Performing Arts (U)

<p>John Cleese is both a versatile comedic actor and a leading business motivator. With the legendary "Monty Python&#39;s Flying Circus", "Fawlty Towers" and "A Fish Called Wanda", he created a unique comedic style that has inspired countless writers and comedians.</p>

<p>America&#39;s most popular humorist for over two decades, Dave Barry is a best-selling author and Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist. His witty, critically acclaimed weekly column was a staple in several hundred newspapers nationwide for more than 20 years.

<p>Bob Woodward gained international attention when he and Carl Bernstein uncovered the Watergate scandal in 1973. Since then, he’s worked to shine a light on the inner-workings of secret government. Woodward’s factual, non-partisan revelations to readers and speech audiences provide a view of Washington they’ll never get elsewhere. Woodward has written about the last ten U.S. presidents and chronicled how the power of the presidency has evolved. He is author of 23 bestselling books – 17 went to #1 – more than any contemporary nonfiction writer.

<p>Kristina Wong is a performance artist, actor, comedian, writer and elected representative in Koreatown Los Angeles. Following its highly acclaimed premiere at New York Theater Workshop, <em>Kristina Wong: Sweatshop Overlord</em>, was a <em>New York Times</em> “Critics Pick.” </p><p>Wong was then named a Pulitzer Prize finalist in Drama, (2022). <em>Sweatshop Overlord</em> also garnered a veritable awards sweep this year including The Drama Desk Award, The Lucille Lortel Award and The Outer Critics Circle Award.

<p>Todrick Hall blends activism and art during a compelling live experience that inspires audiences to believe they can accomplish anything when they take control of their destinies.</p>

<p>Raised on a Texas farm, Todrick tapped into his lifelong passion for the performing arts at an early age, landing a role in Broadway’s “The Color Purple.” He subsequently appeared on Season 9 of “American Idol” before being voted off as a semifinalist.</p>

<p>Actor, musician, activist, and feminist Jackie Cruz currently stars as “Marisol ‘Flaca’ Gonzales" on Netflix&#39;s critically-acclaimed series, <i>Orange Is the New Black</i>. </p>

<p>Brandon Stanton shares his journey of personal growth and discovery, and uncovers the stories behind the stories featured on <i>Humans of New York</i>, powerfully illustrating the value of sharing your experiences. </p><p>As the founder of the street portrait blog, <i>Humans of New York</i>, Brandon has emerged as a worldwide Internet phenomenon and one of today’s most influential storytellers.

<p>For over two decades, Jeff Corwin has been telling stories of wildlife and nature to global audiences through his many celebrated television series on ABC, NBC, Travel Channel, Food Network, Disney Channel, and Discovery.

<p>A groundbreaking figure in the history of American space exploration, Captain Scott Kelly shares invaluable insights on leadership and teamwork, resilience, and embracing failure to achieve personal and professional goals.</p><p>Holding the record for the single longest mission of an American astronaut in space, Captain Scott Kelly draws from his epic life journey to help individuals and organizations redefine and reach beyond their limits.

<p>Adrian Grenier educates and inspires audiences with tips for living a sustainable lifestyle and contributing to an eco-friendly culture.</p>

<p>Best known for his role as Vincent Chase in the hit HBO series <i>Entourage</i>, Adrian is an accomplished filmmaker, producer and director as well. He has also become a leading advocate for integrating sustainability into pop culture.</p>