Page 5 – NYFA

NYFA Partners with Steve Harvey, Newly Developed Botswana Ignite

Primetime Emmy-nominee Steve Harvey, actor, comedian, producer, host of Family Feud, and previously, the host of The Steve Harvey Show, recently announced his Foundation’s creation of a filmmaking academy in Botswana. The initiative, titled Botswana Ignite, strives to help expand the local film industry, enabling aspiring filmmakers and visual storytellers to showcase their unique narrative voices. Botswana Ignite includes the newly developed Botswana Film Commission (to launch in September 2024), Botswana TV Academy, and Botswana Wildlife Film School, as well as masterclasses and mentorship. In partnership with Harvey’s foundation, NYFA will provide three 1-week online courses to support necessary training in creative and technical aspects of filmmaking.

“The New York Film Academy recognizes the importance of upskilling the new generation of Botswana storytellers as African cinema continues to grow on the global stage,” said Jim Miller, the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at NYFA. “We wholeheartedly said “yes” when we were approached by the leadership of the Botswana Ignite TV Academy to assist in this prodigious effort by providing specialized masterclass instruction by NYFA’s industry award-winning faculty. We salute the government of Botswana and the Steve Harvey Foundation for their vision and support for this endeavor. Botswood has the talent to join the ranks of Nollywood as a cornerstone of African storytelling.”

NYFA’s workshops for Botswana Ignite are overseen by Jonathan Whittaker, the head of the NYFA Chair of Short-Term Filmmaking Programs. Whittaker has a diverse background in media production, with credits including work on TV shows such as In the Loop, Louie, and Trophy Wife.

Filmmaking in Botswana and Beyond

Botswana’s flourishing TV and film industry has enabled the government of Botswana to recognize the potential of creativity as a tool for cultural expression and economic growth, leading to various initiatives to support local filmmakers. Events like the Botswana International Film Festival (BIFF) provide a platform for filmmakers to screen their work, and digital streaming platforms offer ample opportunities for mass distribution for Botswana’s filmmakers.

In recent years, Botswana, and the entire continent of Africa have seen incredible growth in film. A 2021 UNESCO report stated that the film and audiovisual industry in Africa accounts for US$5 billion in revenues, employing around 5 million people. Regional film hubs like Nollywood (Nigeria), South Africa, and Riverwood (Kenya) are already major players in the film industry, releasing films like the Academy Award-winning Tsotsi (2005) and Rafiki (2018). Africa has also played host to US-produced films like Hotel Rwanda (2004), The Last King of Scotland (2006), District 9 (2009), Invictus (2009), The Constant Gardener (2005), and Out of Africa (1985), serving as the backdrop to pivotal scenes.

A number of NYFA alums have already found their spotlight in African film. Lunathi Mampofu, 2-Year Acting for Film alum, is starring in the new Netflix film Fatal Seduction, which was filmed in South Africa. 1-Year Acting for Film alum Natasha Thahane has also worked extensively with Netflix on the 2020 streaming series Blood and Water, filmed in Cape Town. AFA Acting for Film alum Masali Baduza starred in the 2022 film The Woman King, filmed in KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Town, alongside EGOT award-winning actress Viola Davis. She was also recently cast in the hit television series Bridgerton. Filmmaking and Screenwriting alum Banky Wellington (Banky W) starred in the hit Nollywood rom-com The Wedding Party (2016). NYFA 1-Year Acting program alum, Sèdo Tossou also starred in the Canal+ TV series Black Santiago Club, filmed in Cotonou, Benin.

Tell Your Story with NYFA and Botswana Ignite

With ongoing government support, international collaborations, and a growing pool of local talent, Africa, and specifically, Botswana’s film industry is only poised for further growth. Aspiring, emerging, and even established filmmakers can explore more opportunities with NYFA’s filmmaking, media, and performing arts programs. Learn more about Botswana Ignite today or explore NYFA’s hands-on and immersive programs – available in-person and online!

NYFA Digital Editing Instructors Win Awards & Stream on Netflix!

NYFA is excited to announce two major accomplishments from our NYFA Post-Production (Editing) Instructors. Two-time Emmy Award nominee Terence Donnellan won two Telly Awards for his impactful short documentary film, Free Ena Farley. The short documentary, which follows the case of Dr. Ena Farley, an 84-year-old professor removed from her home under controversial circumstances, won Silver in the Social Issues-Non-Broadcast and People’s Telly categories. The film brought necessary awareness to elder care, and is available to watch on Vimeo.

Kuldeep Sah Gangola worked as the Assistant Editor of the documentary film, How to Rob a Bank, alongside NYFA alum and director Max Peltz. The film is now available to stream on Netflix and available in 190 countries worldwide.

Free Ena Farley

The short documentary sheds light on a troubling incident involving Ena Farley, who was forcibly removed from her home in upstate New York against her wishes and despite her son Jonathan’s protests. Since the incident in 2023, Ena has remained in a private healthcare facility. Her four sons, all Harvard graduates, continue to dispute Ena’s future and the family estate. Jonathan commissioned Terence to produce this short film using police body camera footage of the incident.

Free Ena Farley from Terence Donnellan on Vimeo.

Elder abuse remains a critical issue for many older adults. Initially posted on YouTube in December 2023, the film garnered over 40,000 views before being taken down due to family disagreements. Since its re-release in March 2024, it has accumulated over 600,000 views.

Donnellan is a multifaceted professional in the film and television industry, with extensive experience as a producer, director, writer, and editor. With over 10 years of experience in these roles, he has been recognized for his work, and he has received two Emmy nominations for his documentary films. Donnellan’s notable work includes the documentary Shelter in The City, which addresses significant social issues. At NYFA, Terence teaches Digital Editing and the Art of Storytelling. He is an instructor in NYFA’s Post-Production (Editing) and Producing departments.

How to Rob a Bank

In this true-crime documentary, a charismatic rebel in 1990s Seattle pulls off an unprecedented string of bank robberies straight out of the movies. Based on a true story, the film is about Scott Scurlock and his accomplices, Mark Biggins and Steve Meyers, who were responsible for 19 confirmed bank robberies. Through their heists, the group stole over $2.3 million dollars.

The documentary delves into the meticulous planning and preparation that went into the heists, such as researching banks, befriending tellers, and obtaining employee manuals. The film also includes interviews with Scurlock’s accomplices, who reflect on their experiences and the addictive nature of their criminal activities.

Kuldeep Sah Gangola is a documentary filmmaker and editor based in New York. With a demonstrated history of working in the motion pictures and film industry, Sah Gangola has also worked on the 2022 film Deep Blue Something: The Documentary, as well as Conviction (2020).

Kuldeep has also shown support for environmental causes, particularly the ‘Cauvery Calling’ campaign, which aims to revitalize the Cauvery River in India.

Kuldeep teaches Digital Editing and the Art of Storytelling in NYFA’s Post-Production (Editing) and Documentary Filmmaking departments. Kuldeep is an alum of the 1-Year Documentary Filmmaking program. The How to Rob a Bank trailer is available on YouTube.

Get Hands-on Experience at NYFA

NYFA offers a variety of digital editing programs designed to provide practical training and experience in video editing for film, television, and media. These programs cater to different levels of expertise, from beginners to advanced. To learn more about NYFA’s Post-Production programs, as well as our programs in Producing and Documentary Filmmaking, request information today!

NYFA Alum Beatriz Santamaria Pinha Directs Ed Sheeran’s “That’s On Me” Music Video

NYFA is proud to announce that alumni Beatriz Santamaria Pinha directed four-time Grammy award-winning Ed Sheeran’s “That’s On Me” music video. Pinha, who graduated from our 1-Year Filmmaking program and our AFA in Filmmaking, was one of thousands of Ed Sheeran fans who submitted a video idea for Sheeran’s “Autumn Variations” album. As one of 14 selected, the “That’s On Me” video is part of a broader series of fan-created videos for Sheeran’s latest album. When working on the video, Pinha brought in the assistance of another NYFA Filmmaking student, Mara Knight, as well as NYFA alum Dani Taouil to serve as the production designer.

NYFA Alum Beatriz Santamaria Pinha Directs Ed Sheeran’s “That’s On Me” Music Video

Her music video offers a unique and heartfelt narrative, thanks to Pinha’s innovative creative vision. Beatriz was selected to represent her home country of Brazil in crafting a visual story for this song, and her personal journey beautifully parallels the song’s message of self-discovery and resilience.

“I never thought about pursuing filmmaking until my fourth year of a bachelor’s degree in Pure Mathematics at the University of São Paulo. During that period, I was feeling lost, and I knew I needed a change,” Pinha said in an interview for NYFA’s Alumni Network.

“After doing a summer college internship at the Walt Disney Parks, I was able to connect with people who studied and worked with arts. I honestly never felt more at home. After this introduction, I started my journey with photography and quickly became obsessed with it. I took a plethora of courses trying to learn as much as I could. However, I still felt like I was missing something. It all clicked when I realized the obscene amount of time I spent watching and dissecting movies and TV shows. For the first time, I thought, why not do something that I enjoy so much that it doesn’t even feel like studying?”

“I knew I needed a good foundation to pursue this passion. Early that year, I stumbled upon a NYFA handout at a photography equipment store. As I learned more about the institution, I knew it was meant for me. I was lucky enough to have grown up with very supportive parents who helped and encouraged me to follow this newfound passion and move to Los Angeles.”

Pinha’s Work Shines with Nostalgic Easter Eggs

Beatriz’s video is rich with Easter eggs that pay homage to Ed Sheeran’s earlier work, creating a sense of continuity and nostalgia for longtime fans. These include:

Infomercials inspired by the promotion for “Out of Variations.”
A Lego house, a nod to Sheeran’s beloved song “Lego House.”
The actor Skip, previously appeared in the “Overpass Graffiti” video.

These subtle references connect the dots between Sheeran’s past projects and his current work, adding depth and texture to her visual storytelling.

Beatriz Santamaria Pinha and crew — Beatriz Santamaria Pinha and her crew!

NYFA Student Mara Knight Costumes Sheeran Music Video

What helps provide even more color to the video is the exceptional work of current NYFA student Mara Knight. While earning her associate degree in filmmaking, a mentor at NYFA advised her to the costume design production track of the Academy of Motion Picture Art’s Gold Rising program. With over 7,000 applicants, Knight was one of the 90 applicants who became Gold Alumni. The work on Sheeran’s video is what Knight refers to as a “wonderful collaboration” with her fellow NYFA community member.

“I first met the director of the Ed Sheeran music video, Beatriz Santamaria Pinha, at NYFA,” Knight shared with the NYFA alumni network. “She knew I was a Gold Rising alum, and was familiar with my fantasy cosplay work. One day, she called me and told me how she’d been chosen to direct the video. I was so happy for her! She’s a huge Ed Sheeran fan, and I knew how much this meant to her.”

“And then – she asked me to join the project as the costume designer. Of course I said yes. I was very excited to work with Beatriz, because I knew she would bring so much to the table. As a former Marvel intern, she had a world of professional experience and creativity to apply to her directing.”

An All Hands-on Deck Production

Though the video was fan-created, it boasts professional production values with a full crew, including producers, cinematographers, and production designers. This collaboration between the NYFA crew ensured that the final product not only captured Beatriz’s vision but also met high production standards, making it a poignant addition to Sheeran’s body of work.

With this accomplishment, the two NYFA community members join an esteemed club of students and alums who have worked on music videos. Hannah Lux Davis, 1-Year Filmmaking alum, has worked on content for Ariana Grande, Miley Cyrus, Kacey Musgraves, Lana Del Rey,

Hilary Duff, and Nicki Minaj, most recently, for the Barbie movie music video. NYFA alums, students, and faculty also partnered with Sony and Cooke Optics for the music video “Country Song II” by The Thing.

Ready to learn more about pursuing skills in filmmaking, directing, and more? Request information from NYFA today!

Cover image via YouTube.

‘A Tree of Life’ Screens at NYFA New York Campus

New York Film Academy students, faculty, and administration recently welcomed producer Susan Margolin to a screening of A Tree Of Life on the New York City campus. The heart-wrenching documentary about the 2018 shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue was directed by Trish Adlesic. The film features interviews with survivors, their families, and friends in creating a portrait of the Pittsburgh community’s response to the tragic hate crime that took eleven lives. The screening and subsequent Q&A was organized to commemorate Jewish American Heritage Month.

*Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting: What to Know About the Jury’s Verdict – The New York Times*

“Screening A Tree Of Life gave NYFA students an insightful perspective on what it takes to craft a powerful documentary that deals with a heart-wrenching tragedy,” said Neal Weisman, NYFA New York Producing Chair. “Producer Susan Margolin provided invaluable tips on how to navigate filming characters that have suffered immeasurable loss. The screening also offered NYFA students, faculty, and staff an opportunity to discuss the threat of anti-semitism and its prevalence in contemporary society. The screening was an important step in creating community through conversation.”

The broad-ranging post-screening conversation touched on several topics including the role of fiscal sponsors in the financing of documentary films, as well as the impetus brought to the project by executive producers (and Pittsburgh natives) Michael Keaton, Mark Cuban, and Billy Porter. Students and faculty alike were eager to discuss the trauma-informed filmmaking protocols used by the production when crafting a project that deals with such sensitive material. Producer Susan Margolin also addressed the impact campaign surrounding the film and its role in addressing antisemitism in the U.S. and beyond.

“It was very inspiring to hear Producer Susan Margolin speak of the power and acceptance that the film had in the Pittsburgh community. It was a true demonstration of how movies have the potential to serve as a platform for bringing attention to important topics in the world and to bring people together during a time of grief,” said One Year Producing student Caio Jordao. “This film effectively gave voice to both the survivors and victims of the tragedy that occurred at the Tree of Life Synagogue and posed relevant and valuable takeaways for the audience to leave with thinking towards the future in memory of the past.”

The New York Film Academy is very grateful for the opportunity to screen the film and speak with Susan Margolin. A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting is currently available on HBO/MAX.

NYFA Partners with ArmyIgnitED, Welcoming Soldiers, DOD Civilians, and Cadets

Since 2009, NYFA has been proud to enroll 3,000 veteran and military-dependent students, welcoming them to our campuses in New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami. As many of our degree and non-degree programs at NYFA are approved for the GI Bill, aspiring visual storytellers can seek out educational opportunities in filmmaking, media, and the performing arts.

Our veteran alums have gone on to do everything from host compelling TV series such as The History Channel’s Forged in Fire, working as a military consultant on films like Man Down, writing and producing their own series, booking stunt jobs in the Transformers franchise, and working with top news organizations. In 2019, NYFA Guest Speaker Adam Driver visited campus to discuss the importance of supporting veterans, his experience in the military, and how he became one of the industry’s most in-demand actors. With so many life experiences, there are infinite possibilities for veterans and their dependents in the film, television, and entertainment industries.

NYFA Partners with ArmyIgnitED, Welcoming Soldiers, DOD Civilians, and Cadets

New York Film Academy (NYFA) is proud to welcome soldiers, DOD civilians, and cadets with our new partnership with ArmyIgnitED. Our partnership allows NYFA students to utilize Tuition Assistance (TA) to pay for their education at one of the most renowned film schools in the nation. To utilize TA to pay for your school, prospective students can complete an application to NYFA, and once accepted, register for your classes through NYFA’s application portal before visiting the ArmyIgnitED website and clicking “get started” to create your online profile. Students can learn more by visiting the Veterans section of our website.

The Best Military Films and TV Shows: The Stories of Freedom and Our Armed Forces

From Veterans Day to Memorial Day to Armed Forces Day to Independence Day, as well as all of the birthdays of the branches of the armed forces, there are celebrations year-round to recognize the contributions of the military in the United States. Film is an outstanding medium to recognize and share the unique stories of America’s independence, armed forces, and continued dedication to democracy.

Here are some of the best military films and television series, as well as other mediums that depict stories of the pursuit of freedom and liberty in the United States.

NYFA ArmyIgnitED — *Oscars 2023 Highlights* via The New York Times

All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)

In All Quiet on the Western Front (2022), director Edward Berger draws viewers into war-stricken Germany in 1914. After enlisting in the army to defend their country, Paul Bäumer, played by Felix Kammerer, and his classmates, are quickly shown the reality of war. Cinematographer and NYFA alum James Friend, who served as the Cinematographer on the film, won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography for his work on the film.

The Hurt Locker (2008)

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, and starring Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie, the six-time Oscar-winning film The Hurt Locker (2008) brings audiences into an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team during the Iraq War. Notably, Bigelow was the first woman to win an Academy Award for the film.

GI Jane (1997)

GI Jane features Demi Moore as Lt. Jordan, an analyst who is brought into an all-male segment of the Navy in an effort to eventually integrate women. Determined to prove herself, Lt. Jordan works under the guidance of her stern superior James Urgayle (played by Viggo Mortensen). The film brought vital representation to women in the military.

Thank You for Your Service (2017)

Thank You for Your Service, starring Miles Teller, Beulah Koale, and Whale Rider’s Keisha Castle-Hughes, brings vital awareness to post-traumatic stress from combat, and struggles that many veterans experience. Directed and co-written by Jason Hall, the film was credited for its realistic portrayal of how PTSD can impact soldiers and their families.

John Adams (2008)

This biographical HBO miniseries tells the story of founding father John Adams and his crucial role in American independence. The series won 13 Primetime Emmys, with Paul Giamatti, who played Adams, credited for his incredible portrayal. Additional cast members included Laura Linney as Abigail Adams, David Morse as George Washington, Fleabag’s Andrew Scott as Colonel William Smith, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as John Quincy Adams.

Full Metal Jacket (1987)

Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the iconic film Full Metal Jacket (1987) is about a group of Marines and their experiences from boot camp to the battlefield. The story is centered around Private Joker, played by actor and NYFA board member Matthew Modine, and the impact that the Vietnam War had on him and his recruits.

Brothers (2009)

Brothers follows the Cahills, a military family whose world gets turned upside down when Capt. Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) is MIA and presumed dead during a tour in Afghanistan. After his death, his brother (played by Jake Gyllenhaal), steps in to provide comfort and solace to his family and wife, Grace (Natalie Portman). Sam returns, changed from battle, transforming the dynamic of the family forever.

National Treasure (2004)

This unrealistic, yet fun film directed by Jon Turteltaub features a treasure hunter (Nicolas Cage) who goes on a quest to uncover a mystery connected to the Founding Fathers and the Declaration of Independence. National Treasure (2004), while highly fictional, does bring an energetic spirit to American history, filmed in the Old City and Center City neighborhoods of Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Army Wives (2007–2013)

The hit TV show Army Wives follows single mom Roxy who marries an Army PFC and moves to an Army base in Charleston, S.C. She shortly becomes friends with the other Army wives on base. The show introduces audiences to a new perspective: one of its Army wives, rather than their husbands. The show stars Catherine Bell, This is Us star Sterling K. Brown, Kim Delaney, and Torrey DeVitto.

Top Gun and Top Gun 2

The beloved ‘80s film Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise, was known for its thrilling fighter jet scenes, intense looks between Maverick (Cruise) and Iceman (Val Kilmer), and the friendship between Mav and his flight partner, Goose (Goose!) Top Gun 2 brought Maverick back to the training center, where he encountered a whole new younger generation of pilots, including Rooster (Miles Teller), Goose’s son.

The Messenger (2009)

In The Messenger (2009), Staff Sergeant Will Montgomery (Ben Foster) learns the ropes of The Army’s Casualty Notification service. Under the guidance of Officer Tony Stone (Woody Harrelson), Will faces moral dilemmas as he connects with the widow of a fallen officer. The film was nominated for two Oscars.

Independence Day (1996)

The Oscar-winning Independence Day (1996) is known as one of the greatest summer blockbusters in film history. Starring Will Smith, and directed by Roland Emmerich, the film follows an alien invasion on July 4th. The film also features Bill Pullman as the President of the United States, Jeff Goldblum as David Levinson, and Vivica A. Fox as Jasmine Dubrow.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot (2016)

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, starring Tina Fey, tells the story of a wartime journalist in Afghanistan. Based on a true story, the film shows the challenges of a woman working in a conflict zone, frequently objectified by men and feeling emotionally overwhelmed by the assignment. Directed by John Requa and Glenn Ficarra, the script was written by Robert Carlock.

See more film recommendations on our Letterboxd! Please note that some of the films on this list, and the content mentioned above, may be mature and not suitable for all audiences.

Explore Opportunities in Film Education at NYFA

NYFA’s Division of Veterans Services (DVS) brings unique opportunities to its veteran students while supporting the veteran communities. As our Los Angeles, New York, and Miami campuses all participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which provides tuition support to eligible veterans and dependents, we welcome a number of veteran alums every year. Ready to learn more about NYFA? Visit our veterans page today.

NYFA Alum Ilda Mason Joins Opening Number at Memorable 77th Tony Awards

Every year, The Tony Awards recognizes excellence in musical theatre and theatre. This year’s 77th Tony Awards was no exception, awarding brave and powerful narrative storytelling. The 2023-2024 season was impressive for the Broadway and off-Broadway world, with everything from the Alicia Keys autobiographical musical Hell’s Kitchen to the 1970s-inspired sensation Stereophonic sweeping the nominations. At this year’s ceremony, NYFA Musical Theatre alum Ilda Mason joined three-time host Ariana DeBose in the opening performance.

“Thank you for inviting me to dance with you @arianadebose @julius_anthony and CONGRATULATIONS on choreographing the opening number (and for so much more!),” Mason wrote in an Instagram post. “There is SO much heart and joy and taking opportunity with both hands that it is BEYOND inspiring!”

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Mason’s recent credits include the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s production of Evita at the Sidney Harman Theatre in Washington, DC.

77th Tony Awards Recap

With so many exceptional performances and shows to choose from, here are some of the plays that earned Tonys this year, and what theatre-goers can expect to see in 2024 and 2025.

Hell’s Kitchen

The musical Hell’s Kitchen was nominated for thirteen Tony awards, including Best Direction of a Musical, Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical, and many more. The coming-of-age mother and daughter story takes place in New York City and is inspired by creator Alicia Keys, the 16-time Grammy Award winner, and her childhood there. Directed by Tony Award nominee Michael Greif, the musical is based on the book by Pulitzer Prize finalist Kristoffer Diaz. The musical also features the music of Alicia Keys. The cast includes Shoshana Bean, Kecia Lewis, Chris Lee, Brandon Victor Dixon, and Maleah Joi Moon.

77th Tony Awards Maleah Joi Moon — *Hell’s Kitchen’ Star Maleah Joi Moon Has Found The Light* – Image via EBONY

At the 77th Tony Awards, Kecia Lewis-Evans, who played Miss Liza Jane, won the Tony for Featured Actress – Musical, and Maleah Joi Moon, who played Ali, based on Keys, won Lead Actress – Musical. The musical is set to run through May 2025 at the historic Shubert Theatre.

Suffs

Suffs, which takes place in 1913, is short for “suffragists” and follows the women’s movement regarding the right to vote (the Nineteenth Amendment). Nominated for six Tonys, the show was applauded for showcasing the struggle for equality. It was written by Obie Award-winning songwriter/performer Shaina Taub, who was also the Artist-in-Residence at the Public Theater, where Suffs premiered. Taub won the Tony for Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre, as well as the Tony for Best Book of a Musical. Tickets are currently being sold through January 2025, with performances located at the Music Box Theatre.

Stereophonic

Stereophonic tells the story of a music studio in 1976 where an up-and-coming rock band suddenly strikes it big. Will the expectations cause the band to implode or catapult them to superstardom? The show was written by David Adjmi and directed by Daniel Aukin, with original music by Will Butler (Arcade Fire). The show was nominated for thirteen Tony’s, including Best Play, three separate nominations for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play, and two nominations for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play.

77th Tony Awards — *Stereophonic’ Review: Broadway Play is Solid Theatrical Gold* – Image via Variety

Ultimately, Daniel Aukin won the Tony for Best Direction of a Play, Will Brill won for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play, and Stereophonic earned the achievement of Best Play, over Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, Mary Jane, Mother Play, and Prayer for the French Republic. Located at the Golden Theatre, the show is set to run through early January 2025.

Merrily We Roll Along

Broadway play Merrily We Roll Along explores the relationship between friends playwright Charley Kringas, composer Franklin Shepard, and writer Mary Flynn, played by Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff, and Lindsay Mendez. The show is in its final weeks but will be remembered for featuring one of Sondheim’s scores. Nominated for seven Tonys, the show snagged three awards, including Merrily We Roll Along for Revival – Musical, Daniel Radcliffe for Featured Actor – Musical, and Jonathan Groff for Lead Actor – Musical. While the show is set to conclude in summer 2024, it’s had a long and successful run at Hudson Theatre.

Additional Tony Highlights

In addition to the big wins for Hell’s Kitchen, Suffs, Stereophonic, and Merrily We Roll Along, there were many other Tony achievements this year. Jeremy Strong of the hit series Succession, who starred in An Enemy of the People won Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play. Sarah Paulson, known for her roles in American Horror Story and American Crime Story, won Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play for Appropriate. The play also won for Best Revival of a Play. The Outsiders nabbed awards for Best Musical and Best Direction of a Musical (Danya Taymor).

Kara Young was recognized for her role in Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch, winning Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play, and Justin Peck won Best Choreography for Illinoise.

Must-See Musicals and Plays in NYC in 2024, 2025

There are a number of incredible shows lined up for the rest of 2024 and into 2025, from new debuts to movie to musical adaptations to must-see shows to catch before they conclude. The Office: A Musical Parody, which has featured NYFA alum Jennifer Molson as Angela (and others), and alum Isa Gaya as the swing, runs through November 2024.

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The Notebook, based on the film and adapted from the iconic Nicholas Sparks novel, will run through the end of November, and following a successful run in London, Tammy Faye will debut in late October 2024. Starting in late October 2024 is Death Becomes Her The Musical, based on the popular film starring Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn. Mystic Pizza, another film adapted to the stage, will run through February 2025, and West Side Story concludes its run in July 2024. Fun fact — Ilda Mason was in the NYFA Guest Speaker Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of West Side Story as well!

Theater enthusiasts can also look forward to seeing a stage adaptation of the smash hit Crazy Rich Asians, as well as The Little Mermaid and Betty Boop The Musical – all coming to New York’s theatre scene soon!

Develop Performance, Audition, and Storytelling Skills at NYFA

At NYFA, students can refine and master their skills in performing and auditioning, all while learning the fundamentals of narrative storytelling. Our hands-on training prepares aspiring artists to pursue their passion on stage or in front of the camera, giving them the experience to bring captivating stories to life. Ready to learn more about our programs? Request more information from NYFA today!

Cover image via Broadway World

NYFA Alum Masali Baduza Stars in Surprise ‘Bridgerton’ Role

The newest member of the ‘ton? NYFA AFA in Acting for Film alum Masali Baduza! The actress, originally from South Africa, appeared in season three, part two of the show on Netflix. The reveal is a surprise for another big reason, as it’s a departure from the show’s source material.

(Warning, spoilers ahead!)

Masali plays the love interest of Francesca Bridgerton, Michaela Stirling, John (Francesca’s about to be husband’s) cousin. In the books by Julia Quinn, John’s cousin was Michael Stirling. Fans know that after John’s untimely death, Francesca Bridgerton ends up with Michael, hinting at Michaela’s (and Baduza’s) importance in the show.

“When I read her book, I, as a queer woman, really related to her book,” said showrunner Jess Brownell in an interview with Deadline. “Maybe in a way Julia Quinn didn’t intend, but a lot of Francesca’s book is about feeling different from her family and from the world around her and not really knowing why. In the book, I think it’s mostly just about being introverted. But I think for a lot of queer people, not every queer person, but a lot of queer people, that sense of feeling different from the time you’re young, is part of our stories. So it felt like a natural one to gender bend.”

NYFA Alum Masali Baduza’s New Role Brings LGBTQ+ Representation to the ‘ton

Baduza’s role in Bridgerton brings vital representation to the massively popular Netflix series just in time for Pride Month. It’s no surprise that the series, which is known for casting actors of color in prominent leading roles, would choose to showcase an LGBTQ+ relationship. In an interview with People magazine, Baduza’s Bridgerton co-star Simone Ashley, who plays newly married Kate Bridgerton, gave Baduza the following advice:

“I think to be just deeply proud about what you’re representing, and [know] that many people are going to be so seen by the story that you’re going to be telling,” said Ashley. “And that we’re all here with open arms and so excited.”

Masali Baduza Dazzeles in Noughts + Crosses and The Woman King

After graduating from NYFA Los Angeles in 2016, Baduza went on to appear in films such as Bhai’s Cafe, The Fighter, and two episodes of the TV series Trackers. She’s best known for her role in the popular BBC drama series Noughts + Crosses and also starred in a remake of the 1982 slasher film Slumber Party Massacre, the short film Let’s Do This Again Sometime (2021), as well as the 2021 TV adaptation of Around the World in 80 Days, starring David Tennant.

In 2022, she co-starred alongside Oscar-, Emmy-, and two-time Tony Award-winning actress Viola Davis in The Woman King as Fumbe. The film is based on true events and tells the story of an all-female warrior unit in the 17th and 19th centuries that defended the West African kingdom of Dahomey.

The film, which was directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, was filmed in South Africa and recruited people of color and women for the cast and crew.

Develop Your Acting Skills and Reel at NYFA

Masali Baduza is one of many NYFA alums using their skills and experience to pursue their passion for performance. At NYFA, students learn through hands-on experience and projects, developing and honing their natural talent to build a foundation of vital performance and audition techniques. Ready to learn more about our acting programs? Get more information today!

NYFA Alums Premiere at the 2024 Tribeca Festival

This June, we celebrate NYFA alumni premiering films at the 2024 Tribeca Festival. This year’s jurors include NYFA alum Francesca Scorsese, NYFA Guest Speaker Kim Cattrall, David O. Russell, Selma Blair, Asghar Farhadi, trailblazing director Chinonye Chukwu, as well as Nisha Pahuja, Nikyatu Jusu, Sheila Nevins, and Clara McGregor. So far, the festival has premiered films such as The Knife, Presumed Innocent, Darkest Miriam, and Swimming Home with NYFA Guest Speaker Christopher Abbott.

nyfa alums tribeca — *NYFA alum and TikTok star Francesca Scorsese*. Image via W Magazine.

Tribeca also hosts an annual Shorts Program, which this year, includes a series of AI shorts, animated shorts selected by EGOT winner Whoopi Goldberg, and shorts in themes such as “Course Correction,” “Get Comfortable,” “It’s Complicated,” “Life Cycles,” “Music Videos,” and even a segment for New York people watching.

NYFA Alums Premiere at the 2024 Tribeca Festival

At this year’s festival, NYFA alums Mariko Ide and Aaron Latta-Morrisette will premiere work, including Dust to Dust, which Ide edited, as well as Slave Play. A Movie. Not a Play, which featured Latta-Morrisette. In the Summers, produced by NYFA Producing alum Janek Ambros, will also screen at Tribeca.

“A landmark event both for the city of New York and the international film industry, Tribeca is a place where filmmakers around the world dream of screening their films. A big congratulations to Janek and Mariko for achieving that dream and to the team behind “Dust to Dust” for receiving the 2024 Human/Nature Award,” says Crickett Rumley, Senior Director of NYFA’s Film Festival Department.

Here are more about their accomplishments and new films.

Mariko Ide, Dust to Dust

Mariko Ide, a NYFA Documentary alum, served as editor of Dust to Dust. The film, directed by Kosai Sekine, Dust to Dust is Tribeca’s recipient of the 2024 Human/Nature Award. The award is given to films focused on environmental storytelling and the natural world.

The film, which is in Japanese but subtitled in English, follows Japanese haute couture designer Yuima Nakazato as he travels to Kenya to find inspiration for the future of Parisian fashion. Previously, Mariko worked at Yahoo! Japan and edited the short Temple Family, as well as the 2023 documentary The Making of a Japanese.

“We are so honored to accept this award and excited to share this film with the people in New York!” said Mariko regarding the film.

Janek Ambros, In The Summers

Janek Ambros, NYFA Producing alum, has produced and directed award-winning and nominated films including American Montage (2013), Unwarranted Influence (2014), Imminent Threat (2015), May 15th in Paris (2017), and Mondo Hollywoodland (2019).

He wrote and directed Ukrainians in Exile, produced by two-time Oscar winner and NYFA Guest Speaker Janusz Kaminski and actor Liev Schreiber, which screened at Cannes 2024 American Pavilion’s Emerging Filmmaker Showcase. In addition to screening at Tribeca, In The Summers debuted at Sundance, winning the U.S. Dramatic Grand Jury Prize.

Aaron Latta-Morrisette, Slave Play. A Movie. Not a Play.

Tribeca will host the world premiere of Slave Play. Not A Movie. A Play., based on the play of the same name written by playwright and director Jeremy O. Harris. Harris, who also directed the film, examines the relationships between three different interracial couples through “intimate workshop footage and candid interviews.”

In addition to NYFA alum Aaron Latta-Morrisette, the film also stars Amauta Firmino, Annie McNamara, Irene Sophia Lucio, and Jonathan Higgenbotham. Latta-Morrisette’s credits also include his film The Night Clubbers (2021), which won “Best Comedy Short” at the Oregon Short Film Festival, as well as “Best Writer” at the Alternative Film Festival. Latta-Morissette also starred in The Alpines (2021).

Make Your Passion Project at NYFA

In NYFA’s filmmaking, media, and performing arts programs, students build essential skills in visual and narrative storytelling while connecting and collaborating with faculty and peers. Our degree, conservatory, and workshops are designed to equip students with the framework to create their own original scripts, films, and performances, making it possible for them to pursue their passion in the entertainment industry. Ready to learn more on how you can attend NYFA? Request more information today!

NYFA Los Angeles Opens Expansive New Photography Studio

This May, NYFA Los Angeles opened a new photography studio for students, located about ten minutes from the main campus. The studio promises to support students in our Los Angeles-based Photography MFA, BFA, 2 and 1-Year Conservatory programs, offering ample space to shoot projects. For faculty members like Naomi White, the Chair of Photography at NYFA Los Angeles, the studio is a game-changer.

NYFA Los Angeles Opens Expansive New Photography Studio

“Our new photography studio offers an endless world of possibility and inspiration,” says Naomi. “An expansive white cyc fills the main space, with 22-foot high ceilings, offering a playground for a myriad of visual explorations. Students work with textures, colorful seamless, gels, Pro Photo and Godox lighting gear, cookies, modifiers, and a room full of props and fabrics with which to enrich their sets.”

*Working in the new studio at NYFA Los Angeles*

“There is also a front studio with a roll-up door offering daylight options for still life and portraiture, two make-up rooms, an equipment and prop room, and a classroom, all fostering collaboration and growth.”

To celebrate the opening, NYFA Los Angeles hosted a red ribbon-cutting mixer for faculty and students.

“NYFA Photography Students have endless opportunities to bring their ideas into being and we can’t wait to show off the amazing work they are creating.”
– Naomi White, NYFA Los Angeles Chair of Photography

*Celebrating the new photography studio with NYFA Los Angeles faculty and students.*

NYFA Los Angeles has graduated a number of innovative photographers and visual artists in our photography programs, including Photographer and Producer Paquita Hughes (Grey’s Anatomy, Marvel’s Runaways, and Hulu’s Little Fires Everywhere), Photographer Monika Sed (The New York Times, AD magazine, L’officiel, LA Confidential, Upscale), and Photographer Alejandro Ibarra (The Advocate, PDN, Cannes Film Festival, HOLA!, Huffington Post, BuzzFeed, Yahoo, Metro.co.UK). With our new space, we can’t wait to see what our Photography students create next!

*Shooting at the new photography studio in Los Angeles.*

Master the Art of Photography at NYFA Los Angeles

At NYFA’s Photography School, aspiring photographers build practical and creative skills in the visual art of photography. Through step-by-step instruction and hands-on projects, students hone their own unique style, build their network, and learn how to tell innovative visual stories, all under the guidance of our faculty of professional photographers. Ready to learn more about our Photography programs at NYFA Los Angeles or another one of our campuses? Request more information today!