Today we’d like to introduce you to Christian Dante White.
Hi Christian Dante, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m originally from South Bend, IN famous for Norte Dame and Pete Buttigieg. He was actually three years above me in grade school and high school. I always make the joke that had I known, I could’ve been the new Michelle Obama and he’d be president right now. LOL. I left South Bend in 2003 to attend Interlochen Arts Camp in Michigan and it changed my life. I discovered I could sing Opera and was accepted into the Interlochen Arts Academy as a voice major. I realized though I’d found this new talent, it wasn’t my passion. They allowed me to audition for the musical theater program (which always intimidated me). I was accepted and graduated from there and moved to NYC to study at Circle In The Square Theater school. There I was immersed in learning my acting craft. When I graduated my second year, I skipped class and auditioned for Hairspray National Tour and I booked the role of Seaweed J. Stubbs.
I toured for over two years in that show. I moved back to NYC and landed the role of the Scarecrow in The Wiz and joined actors equity. After that, I did five broadway shows including, The Scottsboro Boys, The Book of Mormon, Shuffle Along, Hello Dolly, and My Fair Lady. While performing in all these shows on the side, I was always creating a project or producing a photoshoot. During the pandemic, I shot my first documentary in DC and I knew it was time to give this a try full-on. I let go of my agents in NYC and moved to LA mid August. I’m now stationed in West Hollywood to pursue a career behind the scenes, producing, directing and developing new projects. My focus is black culture and queer content. I want to create the thing I needed as a kid or what I need today as an adult. Everything is about celebrating and uplifting both communities. LA is vibrant with creative energy and I’m leaning into the quiet of California to allow my ideas and imagination to take wings and create art that will have a lasting impact.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road is never smooth but after you’ve lived in NYC for 17 years, I think you can do anything. The biggest challenge was that I never had a car or got a license so I’m doing LA without a car. I picked West Hollywood specifically bc I knew I could walk around just like in NYC. I’m not ashamed to say that I proudly take the bus which is free right now. Let’s see how long this lasts. I’m lucky I have a strong tribe here so I have a strong support system. The challenge right now is not being overwhelmed by new beginnings. Being patient, present and also trusting the process.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in producing and creative direction and development. I started a photography project back in 2016 called Broadway Legacy photographing black broadway artists. I’ve directed several photoshoots since then. I also develop projects and produce them. So far, most of my work has been for the organization I co-founded called Broadway Advocacy Coalition. We won a special Tony Award this year which is an achievement we are very proud of. I also directed and produced my first documentary which I’m currently shopping around. Currently developing new projects that I want to get greenlit and begin working on them.
What makes you happy?
Right now, my mornings are my favorite part of the day. It’s quiet and everything is at a slow pace. I make my matcha tea and I sit and I worship, pray, say affirmations aloud or read something inspirational. Being around so many LA friends and family makes me happy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @christiandante
Image Credits:
Chris Sorenson (red suit photos) Ambe J. (orange shirt) Nicholas Caiazza (Denim jacket) @Serbaffo (black beret and wine glass)
