Schools
Tosa East Players Director Won a 'Tommy,' Too
Director Tom Thaney, who's contract was not renewed, goes out in glory with top direction award from state.
The Wauwatosa School Board last week published and proudly read aloud a recognition of West High School's win of a state "Tommy" award for excellence – duly reported by Wauwatosa Patch.
It turns out Tosa East Players' director Tom Thaney won a Tommy, too.
Wauwatosa East High School theatre teacher, Thaney, won the Tommy Award for Outstanding Direction of “Hairspray,” performed in April 2013 by the Tosa East Players troupe of students.
Thaney also won the Outstanding Scenic Design award.
Thaney's contract as theatre director at East was not renewed for 2013-2014, effectively firing him. Thaney said it was with "shock and sadness" that he announced he would not be returning.
One cast member of “Hairspray” received an Outstanding Supporting Performer award – Dana Strothenke for her portrayal of Penny Pingleton.
Kurt Schnabel won the Outstanding Lighting Design award.
In November 2012, the Tosa East Players presented, “The Spitfire Grill,” and Rose Spice Kopischke won an Outstanding Supporting Performer award for her portrayal of Effy Krayneck.
The Tommy Awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, June 16, 2013, at 6 p.m. at the Overture Center for the Arts in Overture Hall, Madison. Spice-Kopischke and Strothenke will perform at the ceremony.
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