Ben Vereen Inducted into National Museum of Dance Hall of Fame Today, 8/11

Michele Riggi, President of the National Museum of Dance and Hall of Fame announced that Broadway legend, dancer, singer and actor Ben Vereen will be honored today, August 11th with an induction ceremony and gala launching him into the National Museum of Dance's Hall of Fame.

Few entertainers today are as accomplished or versatile as Ben Vereen. His legendary performances transcend time and have woven into the fabric of this country's artistic legacy. His first love and passion is and always will be entertaining on the stage.

On Broadway, Ben Vereen has appeared in Wicked, I'm not Rappaport, Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Pippin, Grind, Jelly's Last Jam, and A Christmas Carol. His role in Pippin garnered him both the prestigious Tony Award and the Drama Desk award for "Best Actor in a Musical."

For over 40 years, Ben has showcased his versatility and creativity, performing countless one-man shows not only in the United States, but also Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. He was the first simultaneous winner of the "Entertainer of the Year"," Rising Star" and "Song and Dance Star" awards from the American Guild of Variety Artists. He also earned a coveted spot in the Casino Legends Hall of Fame. In 2011, he released his CD Steppin' Out - Live with Ben Vereen and staged a triumphant return to Broadway with his concert Ben Vereen On Broadway At Town Hall.

Best known for his unforgettable role as Chicken George in Roots, some of Ben's acting credits include: How I met your mother, Intruders: They are Among Us, (Emmy Nomination) The Jesse Owens Story, Ellis Island, (Golden Globe Nomination) An Accidental Friendship n (NAACP Image Award nomination) Ben Vereen: His Roots (Seven Emmy Awards) Tenspeed and Brownshoe, Louis Armstrong in Louis Armstrong- Chicago Style, and motion pictures Sweet Charity, All That Jazz, Funny Lady (Golden Globe nomination) and Why Do Fools Fall in Love to name a few. Ben Vereen recently finished shooting the Disney television pilot Bunheads, starring Sutton Foster.

For more information on attending the induction ceremony and gala, visit www.dancemuseum.org.