Key Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | September 8, 1930, Washington, D.C. |
| Death | January 9, 2005 |
| Education | BA Theatre, Howard University 1957; Master’s, UCLA Film School |
| Career Highlights | Co-founded American Theatre of Being, NEA Expansion Arts Program, Broadway designer |
| Net Worth | Not publicly documented |
| Spouses | Barbara Ellen Cobbs, Barbara Ann Grant, Lynn Whitfield, Loretta Collins |
| Children | Bellina Logan, Lance Vantile Whitfield, Elizabeth Whitfield |
| Well-Known Relatives | Lynn Whitfield (actress), Lance Vantile Whitfield (musician) |
Early Life and Education
Vantile Whitfield was likely born in Washington, D.C., to Theodore Roosevelt Whitfield and Lugene Ellen Green on September 8, 1930. As their only child, he exhibited early creative skill at Dunbar High School. He received a BA in theatre from Howard University and an MA from UCLA Film School after serving in the Air Force.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Washington, D.C. |
| Parents | Theodore Roosevelt Whitfield, Lugene Ellen Green |
| High School | Dunbar High School |
| Military Service | United States Air Force (until 1952) |
| Undergraduate Degree | BA in Theatre, Howard University, 1957 |
| Graduate School | UCLA Film School (Master’s program) |
Career Contributions
Whitfield’s professional journey was marked by various significant accomplishments and contributions to the arts. He co-founded the American Theatre of Being in 1963 and became the first African-American production designer on Broadway with The Amen Corner. His leadership roles included Artistic Director at Studio West and the D.C. Black Repertory Company, focusing on mentoring and supporting diverse artistic communities.
| Career Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Co-founder | American Theatre of Being, 1963 |
| Broadway Design | First African-American production designer for The Amen Corner |
| Founding Director | NEA Expansion Arts Program, supporting diverse communities |
| Awards and Honors | 1992 Joseph Jefferson Award for adaptation work |
| Notable Works | Tarzan, various productions as Artistic Director |
Personal Life and Family
Whitfield married four times, most notably to actress Lynn Whitfield. His three children all became creatives. His famous actress and musician relatives contribute to the arts’ legacy.
| Personal Detail | Details |
|---|---|
| Marriages | Barbara Ellen Cobbs, Barbara Ann Grant, Lynn Whitfield, Loretta Collins |
| Children | Bellina Logan, Lance Vantile Whitfield, Elizabeth Whitfield |
| Notable Family Members | Lynn Whitfield (actress), Lance Vantile Whitfield (musician) |
Legacy and Impact
Vantile Whitfield’s artistic impact, especially in empowering disadvantaged groups, is visible. His work at the NEA and other arts agencies funded many artists and projects, affecting cultural representation. His professional honors demonstrate his dedication to arts innovation and mentoring.
| Legacy Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| NEA Contributions | Facilitated over $47 million in funding for diverse arts |
| Mentorship | Influenced the next generation of artists and performers |
| Recognition | Received multiple awards for his contributions to the arts |
FAQ
Vantile Whitfield’s primary artistic contributions?
Vantile Whitfield co-founded the American Theatre of Being and served as the first African-American production designer on Broadway for The Amen Corner, significantly impacting theatre and arts administration.
Does Vantile Whitfield have any educational projects?
He led educational projects, including the NEA Expansion Arts Program, which supported different artistic groups.
How did Vantile Whitfield’s family affect him?
Vantile Whitfield’s marriage to actress Lynn Whitfield and his son’s music career show a strong family tie in the arts.
What is Vantile Whitfield’s financial situation?
Vantile Whitfield’s net wealth is unknown, as is customary for artists without major commercial success.
Did Vantile Whitfield win any awards?
The 1992 Joseph Jefferson Award for adaptation at the ETA Creative Arts Foundation recognized his efforts to performances and productions.
