West Hartford's ASD Has Special Connection To 2024 Tony Awards

WEST HARTFORD, CT — When the 2023 Tony Awards are broadcast on CBS Sunday night June 11, workers at the American School for the Deaf in West Hartford will have a keen interest.

And you can join them that night and, even, help out programs aiding those who are hard of hearing.

The American School for the Deaf has a connection to Tony Award nominee Lorna Courtney, eldest daughter of ASD Reading Specialist Melodie Courtney, a Norwich resident. Lorna Courtney has been nominated for "Best Leading Actress in a Musical" for "& Juliet."

To celebrate, members of ASD staff are organizing a watch party Sunday, June 11, from 5 to 11 p.m. at Ocho Café in West Hartford, 330 N. Main St., West Hartford.

Tickets will be available for purchase at the door for $25 per person and will include food and soft drinks. There will also be a cash bar and raffle tickets for sale.

Melodie Courtney told Patch Thursday she couldn't be more proud of both of her daughters, indicating they are both active in the arts.

"I have two daughters, Lorna and Catherine Courtney, both of which are musically inclined. It is so great to see both of them follow their dreams. Catherine has chosen to go into business, while Lorna has chosen to pursue music," said Melodie Courtney, a native of Queens, N.Y., in an email to Patch.

"I am in awe to see how Lorna has grown and changed. The work that she puts toward pursuing her dreams is amazing. She has definitely inherited my work ethic and tenacity and I’m so happy that she’s being recognized for her natural God-given talent. It takes a villag, and she has and will always have all of her family’s support.

"I can’t wait to see how she continues to grow, shine, and influence the world."

Proceeds from the raffle will go toward supporting music and dance programs for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, including those at ASD.

The actual Tony Awards ceremony is will at the United Palace in New York City, with Melodie Courtney in attendance with her daughter.

Evan Courtney, Lorna Courtney’s father, will be supporting her and ASD at the watch party in West Hartford.

ASD was founded in 1817 as the nation’s first permanent school for the deaf and special education school. For more information, please visit www.asd-1817.org.

For more information on "& Juliet," click on this link.

For more information on "The American School for the Deaf," click on this link.