Whitney White is an actress and director who is redefining storytelling.
Although her appearance in the 2017 heist film Ocean’s 8 brought her wider recognition, it is her creative work on stage that really sets her apart.
Whitney is not afraid to tackle complex social and political topics, often through a musical lens, creating thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experiences for audiences.
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- Full name: Whitney White
- Date of birth: Not applicable
- Age: Not applicable
- Gender: Female
- Place of birth: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Nationality: American
- Profession: Actor, Director, Writer, Musician
- Height: Not applicable
- Parents: Janice (mother), Marcus “Yabba” Griffiths (father)
- Siblings: Not applicable
- Spouse: Not applicable
- Children: Not applicable
- Relationship status: N/A
- Religion: Not applicable
- Ethnicity: African American
- Net worth: 2 million USD
Early life and education
Whitney White’s journey as an artist began in Chicago, Illinois, where she was born. Her mother, Janice, worked as a travel agent, and her father, Marcus “Yabba” Griffiths, was a Jamaican Reggae musician.
This multicultural upbringing exposed her to diverse perspectives and artistic influences from a young age. White’s passion for performing blossomed early and she sang at the Mt. Carmel from the age of six. Her early love for music laid the foundation for her future artistic endeavors.
White pursued further education at Northwestern University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Music, Theater and Political Science. This interdisciplinary approach reflects her diverse interests and desire to explore the intersections between art and society.
She further honed her skills at Brown University/Trinity Rep, graduating with an MFA in Acting in 2015. During this time, she developed her unique voice as a theater practitioner.
Personal life
Despite her public presence as an artist, Whitney White has maintained a degree of privacy regarding her personal life. Details about her romantic relationships, marital status and family life are not publicly available.
Career
Whitney White’s early acting credits include roles in the film Ocean’s Eight and television shows such as The Playboy Club and Louie. However, it was in the field of theater that White truly flourished.
She has appeared on the stages of prominent US theaters, including American Repertory Company, Philadelphia Theater Company, Shakespeare DC, The Goodman and The Guthrie.
Some of her most notable directing projects include:
Macbeth in Stride: This famous production, conceived and performed by White herself, reimagines Shakespeare’s Macbeth through the lens of black women and the music of iconic artists like Tina Turner. It premiered at the American Repertory Theater and has been praised for its originality and strong social commentary.
What to send when it falls: This play, written by Aleshea Harris, confronts the trauma of anti-black violence through ritual and performance. White’s direction amplifies the play’s emotional impact and its urgent message.
Our Dear Drug Lord: White’s direction of this play by Alexis Scheer showcases her ability to create an atmosphere of dark humor and suspense while exploring themes about female friendship and the complexities of adolescence.
prize
- Obie award for director
- Lilly Award
- Susan Stroman Directing Award
- Tony Award Nominated (for directing “What to Send Up When It Goes Down”)
Net worth
Whitney White’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. Her successful career as an actress, director, and writer certainly contributes to her financial stability.
Social Media
- Instagram: Not applicable
- Twitter: Not applicable
Cinema
- Ocean 8 (2017)
- Playboy Club (2009)
- Louie (2012)
