For the first time in its theatre program’s history, Trinity Western University has been nominated for the coveted Ovation Awards.
The awards, which recognize excellence in musical theatre from both professional and student shows, will be presented on Jan. 31.
The TWU School of the Arts, Media + Culture (SAMC) production of The Drowsy Chaperone last spring has earned them three nominations for Outstanding Production, Outstanding Direction (Angela Konrad) and Outstanding Set Design (Carolyn Rapanos).
Although this is the first time the school has been eligible for the awards, director Konrad credits the musical’s “dream team” for making their first entry a standout production.
Specifically she names musical director Allan Thorpe, voice coach Caroline Harder, choreographer Joel Ballard, set designer Carolyn Rapanos, costume designer Sabrina Evertt, lighting designer Graham Ockley and student stage manager Tiffany Kanda.
“We had a complete dream team to work with,” said Konrad, who is also chair of SAMC Theatre at TWU.
“I’m particularly pleased with the outstanding production nomination, and that is a reflection of how many fabulous people worked on the show.”
The Drowsy Chaperone is a 1920s spoof that follows Janet, a Broadway star, as she tries to leave the spotlight for a storybook romance with her dashing fiancé.
The script lends itself to an ensemble production, giving the opportunity for many students to show off their skills, Konrad said.
“It’s not the kind of show where you have two super stars and a bunch of carriers,” she said.
“So there was an opportunity for lots of different students to shine in lots of different ways. The students here do an excellent job of working together in a way that builds each other up.”
For more on the SAMC theatre program, visit www.twu.ca/academics/samc/theatre/default.html.