2019 Featured Guest

DKAF 2019 Featured Guest: Dan Lauria, actor and writer

Dan Lauria will join the festival on Wednesday, June 12th for the DKAF Donor Event, where he will perform scenes and monologues from the Broadway play Lombardi, written by DKAF Artistic Director Eric Simonson. Having originated the titular role of Green Bay Packer's coach Vince Lombardi, Dan Lauria has given over 240 impassioned live performances. This event will be the first time he has returned to the role since the final curtain was drawn on Broadway in May of 2011.

Festival attendees will not only get to watch a legend perform, but will also get the opportunity to learn from an industry expert. Dan Lauria will host a workshop entitled "The Lost Art of Acting," Thursday, June 13 at 11 a.m. Having taught this class across the country over the years, Lauria uses engaging visual references and hands-on techniques when discussing the art of acting for the screen.

Lauria is best known for his portrayal of Jack Arnold, the money-conscious father on the TV series “The Wonder Years” (1988-1993). He also played James Webb in the 1998 TV miniseries “From the Earth to the Moon” and Commanding Officer, USA in 1996's “Independence Day.”

Lauria appeared as Vince Lombardi in the Broadway play, “Lombardi,” in 2011. Sports writer Jim Hague commented, "Lauria truly becomes Vince Lombardi. You almost forget you're watching an actor. He's Lombardi through and through, down to the wire-framed glasses and
intimidating scowl." 

Both the donor event and workshop are available only to premium festival
pass holders.