David Youse

David Youse, born on January 19, 1966, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, grew up in nearby Jenkintown where he began his acting journey in local dinner theaters. At just 14, he took the stage at the Huntingdon Valley Dinner Theater, performing in productions such as *The Music Man*, *Damn Yankees*, and *The Boyfriend*, where he had the opportunity to understudy a lead role originally portrayed by Broadway star Hugh Panaro.

In 1983, David moved to New York City and enrolled at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, although he left before completing his second year. His New York debut came in the off-off-Broadway play *My Papa's Wine*, where he portrayed a teenager dealing with hydrocephalus. The production was well-received, featuring talents like Laura San Giacomo and Zohra Lampert, and earned him acclaim from the New York Times, leading to numerous theater roles. He also ventured into television, appearing in series such as *Spenser: For Hire* and the CBS Schoolbreak Special *Soldier Boys*, alongside James Earl Jones.

Relocating to Los Angeles in 1989, David continued to enjoy a steady acting career, ultimately shifting focus to producing and directing. His notable one-man short film, *The Callback*, has been showcased at various film festivals. Recently, he produced a 25th Anniversary reading of Larry Kramer’s *The Normal Heart*, directed by Joel Grey, which benefited The Jeffrey Goodman Special Care Clinic and featured a reunion with actors such as Lisa Kudrow and Dylan Walsh.