Waltham Resident Receives Kennedy Center Theater Award

WALTHAM, MA – A Waltham resident was among five Salem State students to win regional awards at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts' annual American College Theater Festival.

Krystal Hernandez was awarded Second Alternate in the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship competition at Western Connecticut State University. Ryan Blaney of Salisbury, Zack Georgian of Shrewsbury, Isabel Samuel of North Attleboro and Ted Silva of North Andover also received awards.

"I love the breadth of our wins," Celena Sky April, chair of theatre and speech communications department at Salem State University, said in a statement. "These awards are a testament to the strength and reach of our program, and to the commitment of both students and faculty in the classroom and on stage."

Professor Bill Cunningham was also recognized for his original play, “A Small Death in a Big Country," which was read at the festival.

The American College Theater Festival aims to "encourage, recognize, and celebrate the finest and most diverse work produced in university and college theater programs" and provide participants with the opportunity to hone their theater skills.

"Our students enjoyed being part of the larger dialogue about new works and professional theater," April said. "This competition not only allows students to be recognized for their work, but to engage with a number of professionals and receive feedback as they continue to build on their talents."

Photo submitted by Salem State