From Salve to NYC: Students perform “Anastasia” on Broadway

For most aspiring performers, stepping onto a Broadway stage is a lifelong dream. For 26 Salve Regina University students, that dream became a reality when they performed in “Anastasia” as part of a professional ensemble. The opportunity allowed these students to experience the magic of Broadway firsthand, showcasing their talent on one of the world’s most prestigious stages.

“The education they are getting just by being in that space with top notch, professional actors is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I am so grateful we can provide,” said Dr. Tara Brooke Watkins, assistant professor and program coordinator of Salve’s theatre arts program. “Our students have really developed the type of bravery and confidence to excel and do awesome things in these spaces.”

Led by Watkins, this extraordinary experience not only provided Salve students with an unparalleled professional opportunity but reinforced the commitment to hands-on learning and artistic excellence within the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance.

Preparing for the big day

After performing in “Children of Eden” on Broadway last year through Manhattan Concert Productions, Salve was invited to return—this time without needing to audition—thanks to the professionalism and preparation students brought to the stage during their first performance.

To prepare for their “Anastasia” performance, students committed to a rigorous and rewarding rehearsal process on campus that mirrored the professionalism of the stage onto which they were about to step. Meeting weekly with Michael Carnaroli, the department’s musical theatre music director—whose guidance and dedication were instrumental—students worked through sheet music and rehearsal tracks provided by Manhattan Concert Productions. Each session focused on learning and memorizing new songs, gradually building a powerful and cohesive ensemble sound.

During rehearsals students recorded their vocals and submitted them to the production company, receiving detailed feedback from the music director in New York. This cycle of practice and revision not only sharpened their skills but also emphasized the importance of precision and collaboration.

Salve students and Dr. Tara Brooke Watkins at rehearsals in the Lincoln Center for “Anastasia.”

From the moment they arrived in New York City, students were immersed in the fast-paced, high-pressure world of Broadway. The students had four days of rehearsals before their performance at David Geffen Hall in the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, a world-renowned venue that has hosted some of the most iconic performances in theater history.

“I think the professionalism that goes into Broadway work was the exact same as what we have been taught at Salve,” said sophomore Kendra Obrycki, a theatre arts and psychology double major. “I was talking to my peers about this when we were watching the principal on-stage cast rehearse, and they felt the exact same way in that it looked and felt very similar to what we have experienced here.”

Working alongside Broadway actors was an eye-opening experience for the students. They witnessed firsthand the level of professionalism, dedication and precision required at the highest level of theater. Many of the professional cast members took time to engage with the students, making them feel like peers and easing some of the jitters about their performance.

“Our first rehearsal, they would ask us, ‘where are you guys from?’ and ‘what are you like?’ It really calmed our nerves,” said Grace Gallagher, a theatre arts and elementary education double major. “They even did a panel where we would pass a microphone around and they would tell us about their personal experience, which was a nice reminder for us that our goals are within reach.”

A once (or twice) in-a-lifetime opportunity

Salve’s 26 students joined nearly 400 others from schools and theater companies across the country to form a massive, unified ensemble. To bring the story’s wintry Russian setting to life, each ensemble performer was also accessorized with scarves, shawls and other cold-weather clothing, creating a visually striking and immersive performance.

Salve students and others in the ensemble of the performance.

On performance day, the energy was palpable, and students arrived early at the theater for technical rehearsals. The nerves set in as they prepared to step onto the Broadway stage, but as soon as the curtain rose, excitement took over.

“‘Anastasia’ was my favorite show growing up. My phone case and lock screen were ‘Anastasia.’ So, if I told eighth grade me that I would be performing on Broadway in ‘Anastasia,’ I think she would freak out,” shared Gallagher.

For many it was a defining moment—proof that their hard work, training and passion had prepared them for this incredible opportunity.

“I didn’t get into theater until high school. So, to go from starting this journey just a few years ago to seeing my parents in the audience of my Broadway performance, was such a ‘pinch me’ moment,” said Obrycki. “And I think there is something beautiful in that.”

Making the most of NYC

Beyond the stage, students embraced the full experience of being in NYC. They attended Broadway shows and explored the city’s cultural landmarks.

One of the most memorable moments of their trip was a special dinner at The Lotos Club, hosted by a Salve trustee. In the elegance of one of NYC’s most historic venues, students were treated like stars, celebrated for their hard work and dedication.

Watkins and students at the Lotos Club.

“It was such a special night,” said Obrycki. “It was another ‘pinch me’ moment to be recognized in that way, to share a meal with people who believe in us and support the arts—it was incredibly inspiring.”

To cap off the unforgettable evening, they performed “Once Upon a December,” and “Journey to the Past,” signature songs from the musical.

Lessons from Broadway

Professionalism, discipline and adaptability—hallmarks of Broadway training—were carried back to Salve’s campus as they prepared and performed their spring play, “The Trojan Women.”

“It’s funny, I felt more committed and more engaged to our spring play. I really wanted to tackle this show and get everything down, because I got to see all these other professional actors get everything down,” shared freshman Daniel Currier, a theatre arts major. “They set such a good example of what a professional actor would do, so I just felt a lot more energized and engaged, ready to nail my own show the way they did theirs.”

Salve’s commitment to providing real-world learning experiences continues to set its theatre program apart, preparing students for bright futures in the performing arts.