Wilson Grad and Cast Win Tony Award

Kelly Grant (a.k.a Kelly Hedtke) a Wilson High School grad (Class of 1988) debuted on Broadway in November, 2006 in the cast of the newest revival of Stephen Sondheim's musical "COMPANY" and the cast, including Kelly, took home the 2007 Tony for Best Revival of a Musical! The 14 member multi-instrument playing cast functions as the show's orchestra, as well as acting and singing the various roles. Kelly plays the role of "Kathy" along with playing the flute and saxophone.

When asked how Wilson prepared her for this creative adventure, she replied, "Julie Accuardi's acting classes and Becky Thompson's choral coaching provided me with a wonderful and solid foundation. The teachers at Wilson gave me the initial tools and confidence to continue pursuing my dreams even in the highly competitive show business world of New York. And, thanks to the years in the Wilson band under Greg McKelvey, I had the instrument skills for this show, as well!"

Julie Accuardi (retired Wilson drama teacher) had the opportunity to spend some time with Kelly this past week. "We were in New York on Sunday and had brunch with Kelly," states Julie. "We saw the show in the afternoon. It was wonderful! Then we watched the Tony's in our hotel room that night and cheered when they won. Yes! I am thrilled. I told Kelly that it was one of the proudest days of my life." To read a review of the Tony Award winning musical, go to http://broadwayworld.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=19137. For info on Kelly's career, visit her online at www.kellygrant.com.

"Sunday was a pretty exciting night for us at the cast of Company," says Kelly. "We were thrilled about the Tony win, and had a wonderful time there at Radio City Music Hall. Sending warm wishes to the Wilson High School crowd there. I couldn't have made it to Broadway without them!" Congratulations to Kelly and her parents, Jim and Sandy Hedtke!

Follow-up: Company with Kelly aired on television on PBS Great Performances Wednesday night, February 20, 2008 at 9:00PM, Channel 10. Kelly plays the role of "Kathy" along with playing the flute and saxophone [and is the actress in the middle of the photo in the following link.] To learn more about the PBS Great Performances of Company go to: http://www.pbs.org/wnet/gperf/shows/company/index.html.

Also, Kelly is currently starring in the lead role of "Christine" in the Broadway National Tour of Phantom of the Opera. "I am having a BLAST!" Kelly adds. "This is a terrific cast and crew." The Tour is scheduled to play in Portland, Oregon from August 13 - September 7, 2008.

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