Hartford Children's Theatre has won two 2010-2011 National Youth Theatre Awards and an additional three nominations. The sixth annual National Youth Theatre Awards honor outstanding work by young performers in the arts. More than 200 productions were considered for the awards, including shows from more than 100 theatres in more than 50 cities spanning 12 states. A limited number of adult performers were also recognized for their performances in productions for young audiences.
Hartford Children's Theatre performers Timmy Perry and Hollis Long won for their performances in the HCT Family Main Stage fall production of Willy Wonka. Perry, an 11 year old Plantsville resident, received the "Best Leading Actor Award - Junior Division" for his performance as "Charlie Bucket" while Long, a 13 year old West Hartford resident, received the "Best Supporting Actress Award - Junior Division" for her performance as gum-smacking "Violet Beauregarde." Nominations were awarded to 14 year old Emily Bordonaro ("Veruca Salt") of Avon, Sheri Ziccardi ("Mrs. Teavee") of Bloomfield and Christopher Cavallo ("Willy Wonka") of Hartford.
"Everyone at Hartford Children's Theatre, from our staff to the performers honored, is thrilled to be recognized by the National Youth Theatre Awards," said HCT Artistic Director Ryan Ratelle. "The exciting news of these awards has given us great inspiration as we plan for our upcoming 2011-2012 Family Main Stage Series."
Winners of the 2010-2011 National Youth Theatre Awards will be formally presented with their awards at a ceremony honoring their accomplishments in different regions of the country including multiple ceremonies in California, Arizona and New York City.
Hartford Children's Theatre is Connecticut's leading provider of theatrical training and quality entertainment for children and families. The mission of Hartford Children's Theatre is to enrich the lives of the children of Greater Hartford and surrounding communities by providing access and exposure to high quality theatre for young audiences along with theatrical education and music training classes. Executive Director Michael R. Kintner, Artistic Director Ryan Ratelle and Education Director Lisa Foss helm the organization now entering its 22nd year.
For more information, please call 860.249.7970 or visit us online at: www.hartfordchildrenstheatre.org.
