Tell me a bio of Raúl Esparza.

Include key facts about their life, career, achievements, and impact.

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Raúl Esparza is an American actor, singer, and dancer. He was born on October 24, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Esparza's family moved to New York City when he was a child, and he grew up in Manhattan's Upper West Side.

**Early Life and Education**

Esparza began his training in the performing arts at a young age, studying dance at the School of American Ballet and later attending the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. He graduated from Yale University in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English.

**Career**

Esparza's career in the performing arts spans over three decades, with notable achievements in theater, television, and film. He made his Broadway debut in 1996 in the musical "Rent," and his breakthrough role came in 2003 when he originated the role of Angel Dumott Schunard in the Broadway production of "Rent." Esparza's performance earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical.

**Notable Roles and Achievements**

Some of Esparza's notable roles include:

1. **Company** (2007): He originated the role of Harry in the Broadway production, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical.
2. **Leap of Faith** (2010): Esparza played the role of Sheriff Will Porter in the Broadway production.
3. **Of Mice and Men** (2014): He played the role of Crooks in the Broadway production, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play.
4. **Murder Ballad** (2013): Esparza originated the role of Tom in the Off-Broadway production.
5. **Law & Order: Special Victims Unit** (2009-2011): He played the recurring role of Rafael Barba, a love interest for Detective Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay).

**Impact and Legacy**

Raúl Esparza's impact on the performing arts is significant, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community. His portrayal of Angel Dumott Schunard in "Rent" helped to humanize and normalize the experiences of gay men living with HIV/AIDS. Esparza's advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and his commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the arts have made him a respected figure in the industry.

Throughout his career, Esparza has received numerous awards and nominations, including two Tony Award nominations, a Drama Desk Award, and a Theatre World Award. He continues to be a sought-after actor, singer, and dancer, and his contributions to the performing arts have left a lasting impact on the industry.
Raúl Esparza is a highly acclaimed American actor of Puerto Rican descent, known for his versatility and range in film, television, and theater.

**Early Life and Education:**

Raúl Esparza was born on October 24, 1970, in Washington, D.C. His parents, Miriam Quiñones-Sanchez and Fausto Esparza, were both musicians who performed in the Washington National Opera Orchestra. Esparza's love for performing arts began at a young age, and he was exposed to music, dance, and theater throughout his childhood.

Esparza graduated from The Chicago High School for the Arts and later attended Carnegie Mellon University, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Acting.

**Career:**

Raúl Esparza began his professional acting career in the late 1980s, performing in various off-Broadway productions. His breakthrough role came in 1992 when he made his Broadway debut in the musical " The Twilight of the Golds." Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Esparza continued to work in theater, television, and film, earning critical acclaim for his performances in "Rent," "The Seven Year Itch," and "I Am My Own Wife."

**Notable Roles and Achievements:**

Some of Raúl Esparza's most notable roles include:

* Theatrical productions: "Company" (2006), "Sebastian Flyte" in "The Invention of Love" (2001), and "The Seven Year Itch" (2002)
* Television: "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" (2007-2018), "Elementary" (2013), and "Bull" (2016-2019)
* Film: "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" (1992), "Evan Almighty" (2007), and "Company" (2003)

Esparza's performances have earned him numerous awards and nominations, including:

* Tony Award nominations for Best Actor in a Musical for "Company" (2007) and "Sebastian Flyte" in "The Invention of Love" (2001)
* Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical for "Sebastian Flyte" in "The Invention of Love" (2001)
* Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards for Favorite Leading Actor in a Musical for "Company" (2007)

**Impact:**

Raúl Esparza's impact on the entertainment industry extends beyond his impressive resume of performances. He has been an advocate for the arts and social justice, working with organizations such as the Theatre Communications Group and the Latino Theater Alliance. Esparza has also been a vocal supporter of the #MeToo movement and has used his platform to promote diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.

Overall, Raúl Esparza is a talented and dedicated actor who has made a significant impact on the world of theater, television, and film. His versatility, range, and commitment to social justice have earned him a reputation as one of the most respected and sought-after actors of his generation.