Vinie Burrows facts for kids

Vinie Burrows was an amazing American actress. She was born Vinie Harrison on November 15, 1924. She became famous for her work on the stage, especially on Broadway. She passed away on December 25, 2023, at 99 years old.

Vinie Burrows' Life and Career

Vinie Burrows started acting when she was very young. She even appeared in a Broadway play called The Wisteria Trees as a child. She finished high school in Harlem when she was just 15 years old.

As she grew up, Vinie noticed that there weren't many good roles for Black women in plays. She wanted to play strong, interesting characters. So, she decided to create her own plays and one-woman shows. This way, she could tell the stories she wanted to share.

Her shows were very popular! She performed on Broadway and in over 6,000 places around the world. She traveled to four different continents to share her art. For example, she performed her show Sister! Sister! at the University of Delaware in 1991. She brought the show back to Brandeis University in 2001.

In 2003, she played Barbara Scarlatti in a play called Bel Canto in Atlanta, Georgia. Later, in 2007, she was in a show about a famous actress named Rose McClendon. This show was called Black on the Great White Way.

Vinie Burrows was also honored for her long and successful career. In 2020, she received a special Obie Award for Lifetime Achievement. This award celebrates actors who have made a huge impact.

Vinie Burrows' Activism

Besides acting, Vinie Burrows was also a strong activist. She cared deeply about important issues. She worked with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Here, she focused on improving the lives of women around the world. She also worked on issues in Southern Africa.

In 1980, she joined the Women's Institute for Freedom of the Press (WIFP). This group helps women communicate more easily. It also connects the public with media created by women.

Awards and Honors

Vinie Burrows received many awards for her talent and hard work.

• In 1986, she won the Paul Robeson Award. This award honors people who use their art to fight for justice.
• In 2014, she was recognized by the International Communications Association. She also received an award from AUDELCO. These awards celebrated her amazing contributions to the arts and her community.
• In 2018, Theater for the New City honored her at their annual gala. She received a Lifetime Achievement Award there.
• As mentioned before, she also won an Obie Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2020.