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Dr. Donald Variste: A Visionary Playwright, Mentor, and Advocate for Change
Dr. Donald Variste is a Haitian American playwright, producer, stage director, and business owner whose work embodies creativity, resilience, and a profound dedication to fostering community and individual transformation. Born and raised in Miami, FL, Dr. Variste’s journey reflects the power of embracing one’s passion and using it to inspire and uplift others.
Early Struggles and Discovering Purpose
Labeled with behavioral issues during his early years, Dr. Variste often found himself misunderstood within traditional classroom settings. However, his creative spirit thrived, and his gift for storytelling began to emerge. In 2013, his talent was fully realized when he wrote and produced his first stage play, The Reason For The Season, at a church Christmas program. This production marked a turning point, validating his creative aspirations and igniting a passion for theater that would shape his life’s work.
Founder of DV Productions LLC
Dr. Variste channeled his love for storytelling into founding DV Productions LLC, a platform for producing compelling stage plays that address critical societal issues such as family dysfunction, domestic violence, and mental health. His productions, including Church Hurts, I Hate My In-Laws, Russian Roulette: It Wasn’t Me, and Standing On Business, have captivated audiences across cities including Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi.
Blending drama, laughter, suspense, and insight, his plays provoke thought, spark dialogue on taboo topics, and inspire hope, forgiveness, and healing. Drawing from personal experiences and the stories of those around him, Dr. Variste crafts narratives that resonate deeply with audiences, fostering positive change one city at a time.
Mentorship and Community Engagement
As a first-generation immigrant, Dr. Variste understands the challenges of pursuing a nontraditional calling, particularly within the Haitian community where art and creativity are often undervalued. This understanding drives his commitment to mentoring aspiring actors through his understudy program. By investing in their growth and talent development, he empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue their creative dreams.
Beyond the stage, Dr. Variste is an active member of Spirit Led, a nonprofit organization dedicated to outreach beyond the church walls. Through programs in Miami and Orlando, he has contributed to providing food, clothing, and other essentials to the homeless, embodying his commitment to service.
A Collaborative Leader
Dr. Variste’s inter-collaborative approach to theater fosters a supportive and respectful environment for his team of actors and support personnel. By valuing the contributions of every team member, he navigates the challenges of the production industry with grace and efficacy, ensuring his vision is realized through teamwork and shared purpose.
Recognition and Legacy
With over 15 years in the production business, Dr. Variste’s work has earned accolades and recognition, including features in the Miami Times and Orlando Times. He has been a radio host, keynote speaker, and community advocate. Yet, his greatest joy comes from seeing his characters come to life on stage and witnessing the growth of his actors.
Family and Legacy
As a devoted husband and father, Dr. Variste finds fulfillment in making his family proud and ensuring their well-being. His vision extends beyond his immediate work, aspiring to leave a lasting legacy of reconciliation, love, and selflessness for generations to come.
