Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) Theatre has done it again! The Fall 2023 production of Shakespeare in Love was recently named “Best Play” by BroadwayWorld Phoenix in the 2024 Regional Awards, a prestigious honor celebrating the creativity and talent of PVCC’s theatre program.
The Broadway World Regional Awards, an esteemed recognition program, celebrates regional productions, touring shows, and more. For 2024, the awards encompassed more than 100 cities across America, Canada, Central and South America, Europe, and Asia. This win solidifies PVCC’s place among some of the most talented and dedicated theater programs in the world.
"The success of our fine and performing arts program is a testament to the level of talent and sophistication our entertainers bring to the Center for the Performing Arts. Their hard work and dedication inspire our community and exemplify the excellence we strive for at PVCC,” said Dr. Jana Schwartz, PVCC President.
In November 2023, PVCC’s Theatre Company presented Shakespeare in Love, adapted from the 1999 Academy Award-winning romantic comedy. The play charmed audiences with its delightful blend of comedy, drama, romance, music, dance, and fight scenes. Based on the screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard and adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, the production reimagined the world of William Shakespeare, offering a witty narrative that explored his creative struggles, love life, and the inspiration behind his most famous works.
The production’s unique elements are what set it apart. Infused with dynamic fight scenes choreographed by PVCC’s advanced stage combat theater students, music performed by a two-person "orchestra," and contributions from students who designed lights, props, and makeup, the show was truly a collaborative effort. PVCC Theater Director Andrea Robertson selected Shakespeare in Love with the intent to provide students the opportunity to showcase their skills in stage combat and other theatrical disciplines.
"I'm so proud of all the work that went into our production of Shakespeare in Love," said Robertson. "It was a large cast of 24 actors who not only played the characters but also performed as musicians. Several stage combat students got the opportunity to choreograph the fights, and students designed the lights, props, and makeup. This show was a true collaboration of like-minded, passionate individuals that wanted to put on the best show they could."
Pioneering Stage Combat Education
PVCC continues to innovate in the arts, as the first college in the nation to offer a Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Stage Combat. Robertson herself is one of only two instructors in Arizona that are Certified Teachers with the Society of American Fight Directors, bringing a high level of expertise to the program.
This award is a shining example of the incredible opportunities available to PVCC students. For more information on PVCC’s Fine and Performing Arts, visit the website.