Blumenthal Business Leaders for the Arts
PRESENTED BY: Wells Fargo
The sixth annual Blumenthal Performing Arts High School Musical Theater Awards, also known as The Blumey Awards, culminated May 21 when winners in 12 categories were announced and nominees for Best Actor, Best Actress, and Wells Fargo Best Musical performed live on stage at the Belk Theater.
Anna Hertel of Ardrey Kell High School won Best Actress for her portrayal of “Velma Kelly” in CHICAGO. Justin Rivers of Central Academy of Technology and Arts won Best Actor for his portrayal of “Sweeney Todd” in SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET, marking his second year in a row as a winner in this category.
Hertel represented the
Charlotte region in New York City at the 2017 National High School Musical Theatre Awards, also
known as The Jimmy Awards, June 26 at the Minskoff Theatre on Broadway (home to
Disney’s THE LION KING). Hertel won the Best Dancer
Award (presented by The Shubert Organization) and Central Academy of Technology and Arts theater
teacher Larry Robinson received an Inspiring Educator Award (presented by Wells
Fargo).
HOSTED BY: Carolinas Healthcare System
Over 120 representatives from our growing list of corporate partners enjoyed a wonderful lunch provided by Dean and Deluca on May 11 in the Knight Theater Lobby. Keynote Speaker, Jed Bernstein (Former President of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts) provided insights into the Business of Broadway.
“The arts enhance the local economy by creating jobs and ancillary economic activity, represent real storytelling, provide unique touch points for young people, and ultimately make us better humans.”
– Jed Bernstein
Arts for All is a program that provides tickets for Blumenthal performances to families and children least able to afford them. On July 20, 2017, more than 1,100 students and family members from Freedom School Partners in the Carolinas saw THE LITTLE MERMAID. Belk Theater was full of bright-eyed children filled with excitement to see the show. For many of these students it was their first time in a theater and their first time seeing a live performance.
We believe Blumenthal Performing Arts should be a place where all kids can be inspired by the magic of theater, including those who can attend only through your generosity.
For a full schedule of events, click here.
