Musical theatre students win top honors at NATS competition
October 9, 2024
Musical theatre majors Brooke May and Ryan Bedi, students in YSU’s University Theatre, were awarded first-place in their respective performance categories at the 2024 National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Tri-State Chapter “Student Auditions” Competition, held Saturday, October 5 at West Virginia University.
The Tri-State Chapter of NATS encompasses Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Ohio, and West Virginia, drawing top talent from across the region. Competitors in this event must first pass a rigorous preliminary round before performing for an audience of esteemed vocal instructors who serve as adjudicators. May and Bedi achieved success in the Women’s Treble and Men’s Tenor, Baritone, and Bass Lower Collegiate Music Theatre Divisions, respectively.
May and Bedi’s wins highlight the strength of YSU’s music and theatre programs and its commitment to fostering exceptional talent.
“I’m proud of them for doing the brave and difficult thing of putting their art, selves, and talent on the stage to be judged by all. They deserve the awards,” professor of musical theatre Charles Dugan said.
Founded in 1944, NATS is the largest professional association of teachers of singing in the world. By supporting voice professionals, advancing ethical principles and practice, and encouraging individual skills and creativity, NATS hopes to advance excellence in singing through teaching, performance, scholarship, and research.