A Bright Light on Broadway
Congratulations to Rob Ashford, a member of Washington and Lee’s Class of 1982, for the two Tony nominations he received Tuesday. The director of the current Broadway revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” won nods for best direction of a musical and best choreography.
And there’s more — two of his stars were nominated in the musical category as well, Tammy Blanchard for best actress in a featured role, and John Laroquette for best actor in a featured role. You may have heard of another performer in the show — Daniel Radcliffe. The actor who portrays Harry Potter on film is making his musical comedy debut under Rob’s guidance.
“How to Succeed” also won nominations for best revival of a musical, best costume design of a musical, best lighting design of a musical and best orchestration.
It’s not Rob’s first acquaintance with Tony. He’s received nominations for his work on earlier productions, including “Cry Baby” and “The Wedding Singer,” and he won one for his choreography of “Thoroughly Modern Millie” in 2002. He’s also been nominated for the Oliviers, Britain’s equivalent of the Tonys. He’s got an Emmy at home too, for his choreography of the 81st Academy Awards.
Watch the Tony Awards on June 12 to see if Rob and company take home the prizes. And to see just why he’s won such acclaim, watch this video:
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