Lynn University supporters bring Broadway to the Wold

Each time the curtains rise at Lynn University's Keith C. and Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center, it symbolizes community—a behind-the-scenes production rooted in generosity and a shared passion for the theatre. 

Over the years, donations have elevated the Lynn Drama program to new heights, inspiring and exciting students, faculty, and community members while alluring prospective students and generating buzz within the performing arts circle.

Whether it be a vintage limousine acquired from a beloved Broadway show or monetary donations that help bring to life the enchanting worlds of award-winning productions, community contributions have enabled Lynn performers and audiences to immerse themselves in their favorite on-stage stories. 

"Mrs. Wold sponsors one major show every year that is a collaboration between Lynn Drama and the Lynn University Conservatory of Music, including this past year's production of Ira Gershwins' Crazy for You®," said Adam Simpson, professor and drama department chair. "Her annual donation is why we're able to produce such high-caliber shows."

Donor gifts such as those made by Mrs. Wold offset costs of production elements, from licensing rights and set lights to props, sound and more. These elements allow Lynn Drama to bring compelling and fabulous stories to life on stage.

Previous shows sponsored by Wold—and directed by Simpson—include Crazy for You, performed in 2023, and Gigi in 2022.

"There's a standard and an expectation we've established in our program over the past seven years. We offer quality entertainment that's robust, visually appealing and beautiful all around," said Simpson. "Our benefactors and members of the Lynn Drama Spotlight Society make that happen and, as a result, make us more appealing to future recruits."

The Lynn Drama Spotlight Society recognizes donors who promote performance education for talented young actors. These generous donors provide financial support for scholarships and equipment purchases. 

Additionally, esteemed local partners from The Wick Theatre and Costume World contribute to Lynn Drama's high-caliber productions through physical donations—namely set props and costumes.

"Our students can sing, dance and act their hearts out—there's no question about it—but the storytelling wouldn't be as effective if they were in jeans and T-shirts," said Carrie Simpson, associate professor of Dialogues of Learning at Lynn's College of Arts and Sciences. "Set props and costume donations elevate our productions. They've taken our Celebration of the Arts shows to the next level by immersing everyone in the magic that is theater."

Simpson recalled the early years of Celebration of the Arts when students bought their costumes and borrowed set pieces from the Conservatory of Music. She credits Barbara Cambia, executive director for Career and Alumni Connections, and Katrina Carter-Tellison, vice president for Academic Affairs at Lynn, for helping to build the program by securing effective donations and supporting Simpson's team as they led Lynn's first crowdfunding campaign, which raised over $8,000 at the time.

Cambia also helped forge Lynn's invaluable relationship with Marilynn Wick, founder and chief executive officer of The Wick Theatre and Costume World—the largest costume rental facility in North America—and her daughter Kim Wick, who serves as vice president of The Wick Theatre, as well as director and curator of its Costume Museum.

"Barbara and Katrina believed in us, and we grew more and more every year," said Carrie Simpson. "It's been great working closely with the Wick Theatre and Costume World. I'll stop by with pictures and share our unique vision for a show, and they work with us to make it happen. Then, I'll take my students so they can try everything on and have alterations done if necessary. It's a wonderful local partnership that helps us tie everything together."

Andrew Burnstine, associate professor of marketing in the College of Business and Management, was the costume coordinator for Lynn Drama's 2023 production of Crazy for You. He liaised with Costume World and the Wick Theatre to feature outfits and props that transported the Wold to 1930s Nevada and New York City. 

"Costume World has given Lynn students the unique opportunity to perform in original Broadway costumes that are handmade, intricate and authentic," said Burnstine. "Utilizing these costumes also honors Lynn's commitment to sustainability. It's a win-win."

Having the Wick Theatre and Costume World close to Lynn is immensely helpful, as costume development involves multiple steps. Actors need to work with their rentals and ensure tap shoes sound and fit properly; makeup and costumes must also appear flawless under stage lights. This process creates an important connection between the director, choreographer, costume coordinator and costume fitters.

In preparation for Crazy for You, Lynn also rented costumes and wigs that spoke to the show's 1930s era and characters, from the follies girls to the chauffer. One showstopping surprise that resonated with audiences during the show, was the appearance of the limousine from the original 1992 Broadway production of Crazy for You. The car had been showcased at the Wick Theatre and was delivered to Lynn for use in the musical.

In addition to providing donations, Wick Theatre and Costume World serve as educational partners. Lynn students often visit for tours, work as interns and learn first-hand from the Wicks. 

A former thespian himself, Burnstine recognizes the impact Lynn's high-quality productions will have on students as they look to their future careers. 

"Outside of New York, Los Angeles, Chicago or London, I can't think of a better musical theatre program than the Bachelor of Fine Arts offered at Lynn. The immersive, multi-level training students receive here is incredible for their resumes and will serve them well when they go out for parts," said Burnstine. "I can't wait to see how Lynn Drama continues to grow over the years and which productions they'll take to the stage next."

For more information about Lynn Drama, visit lynn.edu/drama-bfa.