Broadway World - June 10, 2024
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In an unprecedented achievement for a university production, Hollywood State University's staging of the original musical "Director’s Cut" has received a Tony nomination for Best Play. The production, written and composed by HSU students under the guidance of Broadway veteran and HSU professor John Landry, transferred to Broadway after a sold-out run at the university's Goldwyn Theater.
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"This nomination is a testament to the extraordinary talent and dedication of our students," said Department Chair Dr. Lydia Olivarez. "It's a dream come true for everyone involved and a validation of our program's commitment to nurturing original voices in musical theater."
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The nomination marks the first time a university production has been recognized in this category, setting a new benchmark for collegiate theater programs nationwide. "Director’s Cut" is a mystery thriller set during the troubled production of a big-budget film, where sabotage is suspected. Lead writer and composer, HSU senior Maria Delgado, expressed her shock at the nomination. "When we started this project, we were just a group of students who loved musical theater and wanted to tell a story," Delgado said. "To see it on Broadway, let alone nominated for a Tony, is beyond our wildest dreams."
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The production has received praise for its innovative staging, which incorporates elements of film projection and live camera work, blurring the lines between stage and screen. New York Times theater critic Benjamin Brantley called it "a love letter to Hollywood that pushes the boundaries of what musical theater can be."
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The nomination has sent shockwaves through the theater education community. "This changes everything," said Dr. Thomas Harper, President of the National Association of Theater Education Programs. "It shows that student work can compete at the highest levels of professional theater. It's going to inspire programs across the country to aim higher and dream bigger."
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Hollywood State University's success story is already impacting enrollment, with applications to the theater program seeing a 30% spike since the nomination was announced. The university has responded by announcing plans to expand the program, including the construction of a new performance space and the creation of a musical theater writing workshop led by Tony-winning alumni.
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As the Tony Awards approach, the cast and crew of "Lights, Camera, Passion!" are basking in their historic achievement while remaining focused on their nightly performances. Win or lose, Hollywood State University has already secured its place in theater history, proving that sometimes the most passionate voices in show business are found not under the bright lights of Broadway, but in the classrooms and rehearsal spaces of academia.