Music On Stage Nominated for Nine BroadwayWorld Chicago Awards

Music On Stage was recently nominated for nine BroadwayWorld Chicago Awards, including Best Musical for last season’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” and Best Local Theatre.

Founded in 1957, Music On Stage has long delivered memorable performances that resonate with audiences of all ages, but the production of “Fiddler on the Roof” was a standout example of what MOS is all about. This timeless classic, with its powerful storytelling and unforgettable score, was beautifully brought to life by Director/Choreographer Jocelyn Adamski, nominated for two awards for her efforts.

“What I love is that [“Fiddler on the Roof”] both celebrates the joys of things that can change positively, and also the sorrow [when things change] . . . and also shows things that don't change historically throughout time, and gives people something to think about,” mused Adamski in an interview during the production period. She returns this spring to MOS to direct “Oliver!”

The cast, led by nominee Brian Rabiowitz as Tevye, demonstrated the depth and passion that community theatre can bring to even the most well-known Broadway shows. And no one who saw the show could forget Abby Naden’s performance as Chava, the daughter who marries outside of the faith, also nominated for a Best Supporting Performer award.

FOTR was the show from last season that garnered the most nominations, also netting nods for Best Costumes (Mark Burrows, previously nominated for a Lou award), Max Thalhammer for Best Sound Design, Marty Karlin for Best Music Direction (a Lou Award winner for his work on FOTR), and Best Ensemble; however, both of MOS’ other offerings were also nominated. Micki Smolenski was nominated for her choreography for “Young Frankenstein,” and “The Wedding Singer” received two nods: one for Emma Robie’s energetic nineties-flavored choreography, and one for Henry Allan’s music direction (Allan returns this winter to MOS to vocal coach “Arthur and Friends Make a Musical”).

Congratulations to all the nominees; their craft, passion and commitment of the MOS family —both onstage and behind the scenes — are greatly appreciated! But, while it’s always an honor to be nominated, we’d love to turn some of these nominations into awards – and that’s where you come in! BroadwayWorld Awards are given to whoever garners the most votes – and we need you to help! Please visit https://www.broadwayworld.com/chicago/awards/ and vote for MOS and our talented artists. But hurry – voting closes at the end of December!

With this recognition, MOS is sure to continue its growth, attracting both seasoned performers and new talent eager to be a part of something special. The future looks bright for Music On Stage, with future productions in the works that promise to continue their tradition of high-quality, accessible theatre that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. As MOS continues to grow, so does the impact it has on the community and the local theatre scene. Whether you’re a lifelong Palatine resident or someone who’s never been to a community theatre show before, Music On Stage is a destination worth visiting—because when local talent and big dreams come together, magic happens on stage.