Cookie Jordan is a multi-talented actress, singer, and dancer who has made a name for herself in both stage and screen. She was born and raised in New York City, where she began her career in the arts at a young age. Her passion for performing led her to pursue a degree in theater at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts.
Jordan made her Broadway debut in the original production of "Dreamgirls" in 1981, where she played the role of Effie White. Her powerful vocals and emotional performance earned her critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. She later reprised the role in the national tour of the show.
In 1985, Jordan appeared in the Broadway production of "The Tap Dance Kid," where she played the role of Emma. She also contributed to the show's soundtrack, which included the hit song "Fabulous Feet." Her performance earned her a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical.
Jordan's success on Broadway led to opportunities in film and television. In 1988, she appeared in the movie "School Daze," directed by Spike Lee. She later appeared in the films "The Five Heartbeats" and "Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit." On television, Jordan has appeared in numerous shows, including "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "The Cosby Show," and "A Different World."
In addition to her work in acting, Jordan is also a talented singer. She has released two albums, "Cookie" and "The Best of Cookie Jordan," which showcase her powerful voice and versatile range. Her music has been featured in several films, including "The Five Heartbeats" and "The Preacher's Wife."
Jordan returned to Broadway in 2005, when she joined the cast of "All Shook Up," a musical featuring the music of Elvis Presley. She played the role of Sylvia, the owner of a local diner, and received positive reviews for her performance. She later appeared in the national tour of the show.
Most recently, Jordan appeared in the Off-Broadway production of "The Total Bent" in 2016. The musical, written by Stew and Heidi Rodewald, tells the story of a father and son who are both musicians. Jordan played the role of Deaconess, a spiritual leader who helps guide the characters through their journey.
Cookie Jordan, The Piano Lesson
Cookie Jordan, Fefu and Her Friends
Cookie JordanA Strange Loop
Cookie Jordan, Eddie and Dave
Cookie JordanSustained Excellence in Hair, Wigs, and Makeup
Cookie Jordan, School Girls; or, the African Mean Girls Play
Cookie Jordan has been nominated for the following awards: Outstanding Wig and Hair at the Drama Desk Awards for The Piano Lesson and Fefu and Her Friends, a Special Citation at the Obie Awards for A Strange Loop, Outstanding Wig and Hair Design at the Drama Desk Awards for Eddie and Dave, a Design Award at the Obie Awards for Sustained Excellence in Hair, Wigs, and Makeup, and Outstanding Wig and Hair at the Drama Desk Awards for School Girls; or, the African Mean Girls Play.
Cookie Jordan has won the Special Citation at the Obie Awards for "A Strange Loop" and the Design Award at the Obie Awards for Sustained Excellence in Hair, Wigs, and Makeup.
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