Paul Waters, 35, a Chicago actor and entertainer, died Friday in Illinois Masonic Medical Center of complications due to AIDS. Born in Chicago, Mr. Waters was described by a friend as “a versatile, emotional Pisces” who loved acting, dancing, singing, drawing and impersonating celebrities. “He knew he had something in his heart and in his blood that he should express,” said his close friend Darren Stephens. “He was the epitome of a very adaptable, multitalented guy.” Mr. Waters’ acting credits included playing the role of Arthur in “Making Porn,” an off-Broadway production at The Actor’s Playhouse in Manhattan. In Chicago, Mr. Waters starred as Emory in “The Boys in the Band” and won an After Dark Award from Gay Chicago magazine. His performance in that role was described in a Tribune review as “acutely original and hilarious.” He also performed in “Dressing Room Divas,” “Tony and Tony’s Wedding” and “Quilt: A Musical Celebration.” Mr. Waters talked often about producing his own projects and creating a production company with friends, Stephens said. He is survived by his mother, Jackie, and a half-brother, Dean Burris. Services will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday in the Cooney Funeral Home, 3552 N. Southport Ave., Chicago.
