Michigan State University once again racked up some big wins in design and acting at this year’s Lansing City Pulse “Pulsars,” which recognize on- and off-stage excellence in mid-Michigan theatre. Out of 25 categories, MSU’s productions of “Into the Wood” and “Frankenstein” received a combined total of 14 nominations and took home four awards, three of which went to undergraduate students.

To say the annual Lansing City Pulse awards ceremony was a bit different this year would be an understatement. For the first time in 16 years, the event, which took place June 29, was held via Zoom. Instead of being handed a trophy, the winners will be mailed a certificate.  

Taking the prize for Best Costume Design and Best Scenic Design, respectively, were Ketura Le’Audrey (BFA Design ’20) and Michael Gault (BFA Design ’20) for their work on the fall 2019 production of “Frankenstein.” Gault’s three-level set was lauded by critics as “hauntingly majestic.” Le’Audrey’s costumes were touted as “exceptional,” “elaborate,” and “true to the 1800s” in a way that added “class and prestige” to the production. 

“Working on Frankenstein was the best senior experience I could have asked for. All the design elements came together so beautifully, I was awestruck during the final dress rehearsal. It is an honor to be recognized for the work I have done on “Frankenstein” and to be reminded of the powerful emotions live theatre inspires.”

– Ketura Le’Audrey, Costume Designer

Actor Kevin Mazur (BFA Acting ’20) received the distinction of Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his rapacious portrayal of The Wolf in “Into the Woods.” Theatre faculty member Dave Wendelberger rounded out the wins for MSU by nabbing the award for Best Musical Direction. Accepting the award on Wendelberger’s behalf, Director Deric McNish praised the work that went into navigating Sondheim’s “deceptively difficult score.”

“When you work on a juggernaut score like “Into the Woods”, you find that there is almost an endless amount of detail in each song, section, phrase and even measure. I spent most rehearsals navigating these details and exploring each nuance, as it pertained to the story, with the support of an amazing creative team, a talented cast, and excellent orchestra musicians.” 

– Dave Wendelberger, Musical Director

Theatre Spartans also shined off-campus, working in a professional setting. Heather Mahoney (BFA Acting and Social Relations and Policy ’20) claimed Best Supporting Actress in a Play for her role of “J” in Williamston Theatre’s production of “900 Miles to International Falls.” The same production also saw faculty member Alison Dobbins win Best Artistic Specialization for her projection design in the same production.  

The complete list of Michigan State University nominees and winners is below. 

Winners: 

Best Costume Design
Ketura Le’Audrey, “Frankenstein”  

Best Scenic Design
Michael Gault, “Frankenstein”  

Best Featured Actor (Musical)
Kevin Mazur, “Into the Woods”  

Best Musical Direction 
Dave Wendelberger, “Into the Woods” 

Nominees: 

Best Musical
“Into the Woods” 

Best Lead Actress (Musical)
Naomi Blansit, “Into the Woods” 

Best Supporting Actress (Musical)
Maeyson Menzel, “Into the Woods” 

Best Lighting Design
Rachel Lauren, “Frankenstein” 

Best Supporting Actress (Play)
Darah Donaher, “Frankenstein”  

Best Hair/Makeup Design
Chantel Booker, “Frankenstein”  

Best Properties Design
Brandon Barker, “Frankenstein” 

Best Director (Musical)
Deric McNish, “Into the Woods”

Best Choreographer
Alisa Hauser, “Into the Woods” 

Best Sound
Jason Painter Price, “Frankenstein”