 Chris Gray, Lincoln College fine arts chairman, said he was happy to
see the nominations. "The Irene Ryan Award is one of the most
coveted awards for collegiate actors, and both are incredibly
deserving of this honor," Gray said. "This is quite an
accomplishment for Williams and Howard, as well as it validates our
tremendous program here at Lincoln College."According to Gray,
Williams is a very talented actor who came to Lincoln College with
excellent training from Bill Deloria at Olympia High School.
Williams approached this role with an intensity and commitment
rarely seen in college actors.
"Portraying an angry, violent young man based on one of the real
Columbine shooters was challenging in itself, but Zach was able to
find the many layers of the troubled youth and played the character
with honesty," said Gray. Williams succeeded in showing the audience
a troubled Freak while also showing the character's cries for
attention, love and friendship.
Prior to this role Williams played Seymour in LC's production of
"Little Shop of Horrors." He is the son of Brian and Lynette
Williams of Danvers.
Tinesheia Howard's nomination was from the same production for
her character of a Rebel "goth" student.
"Tinesheia's acting has improved tenfold in her time at Lincoln
College," Gray said. "She has shown a passion for theater and
learning, and her dedication to acting shines through in her
portrayal."
Gray admires her discipline on the stage. "Tinesheia's work ethic
is wonderful and she also serves as a student leader in the theater
department," he said.
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Howard has been a regular on LC's stage, with roles in "Odd Couple,"
"Sweetest Swing in Baseball," "Antigone" and "The Boys Next Door."
She is the daughter of Sylvia Howard and Ledell Strong, both of
Chicago.
Both students have an opportunity to compete next January in the
regional competition. The Irene Ryan Foundation of Encino, Calif.,
has awarded scholarships to student performers at each of the 19
regional festivals. Winners of the regional competition continue to
a national level, where two winners are each awarded a $2,500
scholarship.
The participating college or university may nominate one or two
students from a production for an Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship.
These scholarships are made possible by the generosity of the late
Irene Ryan, who is best remembered for her portrayal of the lovable
and feisty Granny Clampett in "The Beverly Hillbillies."
[Text from file received from
Lincoln College]
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