BENJAMIN BRYANT (Andrew Gaines) is making his Riverside Center debut. A 2024 Emmy nominee, Benjamin is an accomplished actor, broadcaster, filmmaker. He is best known to area audiences for his performances as “Jesse Kiplinger” in Plaza Suite, “Philip/Frederick” in Noises Off!, “Lendall” in Almost, Maine, and “Mr. Paravicini” in The Mousetrap; and most recently directed Caroline Community Theatre’s groundbreaking reimagining of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. Benjamin is also known for his work in radio, television, and film. Notable past acting roles include "Omar" in the dramedy Parently Ever After, "Phineas" on the sitcom "Aidy Kane (Really Wants You to Love Him)," and five seasons as "Gregory" on the dramatic serial "Forever and a Day." He has received multiple Indie Series Award nominations (including a 2022 win), an ATL Comedy Award “Best Supporting Actor” nomination, and four BroadwayWorld Central Virgina nominations. He is also the recipient of the Pentagon’s third-highest non-career civilian honor for his leadership of a three-day immersive and creative project on the National Mall. Benjamin extends his gratitude to his parents, Albert and Renee, for instilling an early love for all things Donna Summer, Tommy Zamberlan and all of his family and friends for their support of his artistic endeavors, and his fellow cast and crew of SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical.