What does it take to transform from a hopeful college student in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, to a Tony Award-winning actor gracing Broadway stages and Hollywood screens? The remarkable journey of Andrew Burnap offers a compelling answer, a testament to talent, perseverance, and the power of seizing opportunity.
Born on March 5, 1991, in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, Andrew Burnap's early life was far from the bright lights of theater and film. He grew up in a picturesque town, immersed in its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The seeds of his artistic passion, however, were sown early. The vibrant sounds of music, particularly the trumpet, piano, and guitar, provided the rhythm to which his passion for performance danced.
Burnap's professional journey began on stage, with notable performances in revivals of Shakespearean classics. In 2014, he took on the role in the Public Theater's revival of King Lear, and in 2016, he was part of the Troilus and Cressida production. He honed his skills and began to make a name for himself in the world of theater, but it was his portrayal of Toby Darling in Matthew Lopez's The Inheritance that would catapult him to national recognition. His performance in The Inheritance, a play that explores themes of love, loss, and the legacy of the AIDS epidemic, garnered him critical acclaim and, most notably, the prestigious Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Play at the 74th Annual Tony Awards.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrew Burnap |
| Date of Birth | March 5, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | South Kingstown, Rhode Island, USA |
| Height | 5'10" (1.778 m / 177.8 cm) |
| Known For | The Inheritance (Stage), Wecrashed (2022), Under the Banner of Heaven (2022), Snow White (2025) |
| Education | University of Rhode Island, Yale School of Drama |
| Awards | Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Play ( The Inheritance) |
| Notable Stage Roles | Toby Darling ( The Inheritance), Troilus ( Troilus and Cressida), Ensemble ( King Lear), Donald/Leo ( This Day Forward) |
| Current Projects | Snow White (2025) |
| Links | IMDB Profile |
Burnap's foray into the world of professional acting wasnt without its twists. While attending the University of Rhode Island, Burnap received a phone call on April 1, 2013, in the middle of a human sexuality class, that would alter the course of his life. Ron Van Lieu, the chair of the acting program at the Yale School of Drama, invited him to join the prestigious institution. This invitation, a pivotal moment, marked the beginning of Burnap's more formal training and elevated his already impressive trajectory.
The role of Toby Darling, a gay man, in The Inheritance was a career-defining performance for Burnap, allowing him to showcase the depth of his acting abilities. The play itself is a sprawling, multi-generational epic that explores themes of love, loss, identity, and the lasting impact of the AIDS epidemic. The character of Toby, in particular, gave Burnap the chance to explore complex emotional landscapes and portray the vulnerability and resilience of a generation. The role also proved to be a significant step toward expanding Burnap's influence on the stage.
Burnaps career is defined not only by his successes but also by his willingness to embrace different facets of the acting world. He has effectively transitioned from the intimate stage to the expansive world of television and film. Notably, Burnap has showcased his talents in a range of projects, including A24's psychological horror film The Front Room, the Apple TV+ series Wecrashed, and the FX on Hulu limited series Under the Banner of Heaven, where he portrayed Joseph Smith.
His upcoming role in Marc Webb's ambitious reimagining of Snow White, where he plays Jonathan, the love interest of Rachel Zegler's fairest princess, promises to be another exciting chapter. The actor has noted his interest and excitement in being involved in this movie. His participation alongside Rachel Zegler indicates his capacity to connect with a broad audience and showcases the flexibility of his acting skills.
Burnap's path underscores the importance of dedication and perseverance. His climb to critical acclaim and mainstream notice wasn't immediate; rather, it was carefully crafted over years of commitment and hard work. The combination of his theatrical background, a rigorous academic training at both the University of Rhode Island and Yale School of Drama, and his versatility across multiple mediums has established him as an actor to watch.
His journey from South Kingstown to Broadway serves as a powerful illustration of the value of pursuing your passions. It shows how dedication, along with hard work, and a willingness to take chances can lead to remarkable achievements. Burnap's story inspires aspiring actors and underscores the transformative power of the arts. Andrew Burnap's journey is a compelling narrative. It serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and a testament to the transformative power of dedication, talent, and the courage to pursue one's dreams.
Burnap's trajectory also demonstrates the profound impact of education and training. His time at the University of Rhode Island provided a foundation for his acting, and his acceptance into the Yale School of Drama honed his skills and provided him with invaluable opportunities to refine his craft. The Herschel Williams Prize, which he earned, further acknowledged his developing talent, and his dedication to his craft paid off handsomely.
Throughout his career, Burnap has displayed a willingness to take on varied parts. He has skillfully navigated the complexities of theater, television, and film, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. From the intimate setting of The Inheritance to the wide-screen possibilities of Snow White, Burnap has consistently provided performances that have captured the attention of critics and audiences alike.
The experience of the actor, from audition anxieties to sharing the stage with Denzel Washington, illustrates the highs and lows of his career. Burnap's path is a testament to his devotion to his craft and his capacity to embrace new challenges. This dedication to his career is what makes Andrew Burnap so unique in the acting world.
As his career continues, it will be interesting to see what other roles he takes on and how he uses his skills and experiences. The ability of Andrew Burnap, as an actor, to develop and adapt to changing industry trends and new forms of artistic expression will undoubtedly contribute to his continued success and make him an iconic figure in the entertainment world.
His career is a lesson for everyone, and his story underscores the importance of never giving up on your ambitions. Andrew Burnap's path from Rhode Island to Broadway is a success story, and he inspires people of all ages to pursue their dreams.
