Testimonials

     

 Dale Ricardo Shields is an African American actor, director, producer, and educator with a strong connection to the Actors' Equity Association. He is a member of the Actors' Equity Association, along with other professional performance unions such as the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. Key connections to the Actors' Equity Association: 2021 Paul Robeson Award Recipient: Shields was recognized with the prestigious Paul Robeson Award, presented jointly by the Actors' Equity Association and the Actors' Equity Foundation. This award honors individuals who exemplify Robeson's values by leveraging theatre to champion freedom of expression, embrace their responsibility to society, and contribute to the betterment of humankind. Participation in Actors Fund Initiatives: Shields has been recognized with the Actors Fund Encore Award in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, demonstrating his dedication and support for performing arts professionals. Professional Credits: Shields' extensive career includes professional acting, directing, and stage managing work across Broadway, Off-Broadway, Off-Off-Broadway, and Regional productions, including projects at prominent institutions like Lincoln Center and The Public Theatre. His work and membership in AEA highlight his professional standing in the theatrical community. Educator and Activist: Shields is recognized as an educator-activist who shares his artistic knowledge and experiences to uplift and support the next generation of theatre professionals. While not exclusively associated with AEA in this capacity, this dedication aligns with the Foundation's mission to aid and assist acting professionals. In summary, Dale Ricardo Shields is a valued member of the Actors' Equity Association who has been recognized for his contributions to the theatre community and his dedication to using the arts for social good. Reviews on Dale Ricardo Shields  - Reviews and testimonials for director, actor, and educator Dale Ricardo Shields are overwhelmingly positive, praising his ability to create engaging theater and inspire students. He is consistently described as a passionate, intelligent, and influential figure in theater, dedicated to fostering inclusive and thoughtful productions. Reviews from academic and professional colleagues Inspiring artists: Julio Agustin, a Broadway theater artist, notes Shields' deep belief in an artist's social responsibility, which he uses to serve and uplift the next generation of theater professionals. Ensemble-building: A former Ohio University theater director, who is now a professor at Yale, commended Shields for his ability to "foster an ensemble committed to one another, the demands of the piece, and to the audience". In-depth knowledge: Edan Evans deRoziere, an Ohio University alumnus, highlighted Shields' extensive and freely-shared research on the history of Black, Latinx, and Indigenous American art forms. Longstanding reputation: Arthur Wilson, a former department director for producer Joseph Papp at the New York Shakespeare Festival, remarked that even with high recommendations from New York artists, it was observing Shields' talent that impressed him most. Testimonials from former students Transformational impact: Nicole Brinkmann Reeves, a former college student, recounted how Shields challenged her to write an honest monologue. This cathartic experience helped her find her voice and overcome self-doubt. She later received a Kennedy Center/Stephen Sondheim Inspirational Teacher Award nomination for her story. Tough but effective teaching: A student review on Rate My Professors praised Shields as a "tough love, no bs" educator whose real-world experience and extensive knowledge help students prepare for their future careers. Professionalism and empowerment: Cj Williams, a former student, noted that Shields treated his students like professionals, an approach that fueled them to work harder. Recognition and awards Shields has received significant honors throughout his career: Kennedy Center/Stephen Sondheim Inspirational Teacher Award (2017). Tony Award nominee for the Excellence in Theatre Education Award (2015 and 2017). Vivian Robinson AUDELCO Special Achievement Award (2017). Paul Robeson Award (2023). Critical praise for his directing Reviewers frequently praise Shields' thoughtful and insightful directorial style. Engaging and memorable: As one colleague puts it, "When you wake up the morning after you've seen a Dale Shields' production, you're still thinking about it". Thought-provoking: Another reviewer noted Shields' ability to foster "thought-provoking productions". Explores painful topics with grace: In a review of one of his productions, an analyst observed that Shields handles difficult, emotional topics, such as a "womynist genre," in a way that allows audiences to reflect and experience liberation. 

DALE RICARDO SHIELDS