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The Bastrop Opera House swept the 2023 Broadway World Austin Awards, competing against worldclass lineups across Central Texas.
The 2023 Regional Awards honor local productions and touring shows that held their first performances between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2023. Bastrop Opera House claimed 13 of the 19 total categories, including the prestigious title of Favorite Local Theatre.
'I am deeply grateful for the recognition bestowed upon the Bastrop Opera House through the numerous accolades received at the 2023 Broadway Austin Awards. This achievement is a testament to the remarkable talent that graces our stage and the unwavering support of our incredible community,” said Lisa Holcomb, executive director.
The accolades are a product of hard work and dedication, according to representatives, with this season being one of the most successful in the theatre’s history. Shows were repeatedly sold out and more performances were added to accommodate high demand.
“Together, we have created a harmonious tapestry of excellence that continues to elevate the cultural landscape of Bastrop. Our success is truly a collective triumph, and we look forward to inspiring and entertaining our community for years to come," added Holcomb.
Addams Family, the Musical, sold out all eleven performances during its March run and took home five trophies. Holcomb was presented with Best Costume Design and Best Direction of a Musical, Mike Farenthold was awarded Best Lighting Design and Michael Walk was given Best Music Direction. Shiloh Bartee, an 18-year-old homeschooled student who played Wednesday, also earned Best Supporting Performer in a Musical.
“I feel so honored to have this big of a recognition, for a role that unlocked so much for me. The memories and relationships I got because of The Addams Family were more than enough for me, so now getting to receive an award for my performance alongside everything I gained is a type of magic only theatre can bring. Thank you to the cast, crew, everyone who voted, and Lisa Holcomb who trusted me with this role when I didn't think I could pull off such an iconic character,” said Bartee.
The house’s production of Steel Magnolia won Best Play, Best Direction of a Play, Best Performance in a Play, Best Scenic Design of a Play and Best Supporting Performance. Awards were presented to Kelsey Layton, Candice Carroway, Jacob Layton and Sophie Gutierrez.
“Steel Magnolias was my very first show to direct and I'll admit, it was an ambitious choice. The movie is so well-known, and I knew folks would come with high expectations. But the entire cast and crew knocked it out of the park. This win belongs to all of us,” said Kelsey Layton, who met her husband in the opera house. “Thank you to Lisa Holcomb for believing in me from the beginning, and thank you to all the patrons who support BOH and live theater. None of this would be possible without you.”
Additionally, Layton, for Valentine Day Cabaret, claimed the title of Best Cabaret/Concert/Solo Performance, and the award for Best Theatre for Young Audiences Production was given to Willy Wonka, the Musical.
“On behalf of the Bastrop Opera House Board of Directors, I would like to congratulate the award winners, and thank them for representing our community so well,” newly elected Board President Michelle Gaertner said of the accomplishments. “Their talent and dedication are unparalleled and motivates the Board to ensure the stage is always set for future productions.”
The Bastrop Opera House, built in 1889, will be celebrating its 135th anniversary this year and doesn’t plan on slowing down. More information on the 2023–2024 season can be found at www.bastropoperahouse.org.
