Alumni shine Off-Broadway in 'Brighter than the Sun'

An autobiographical musical that delves into the poignant relationship between a young man and his grandmother, both hailing from South Georgia, "Brighter Than the Sun" is written by alumnus Collin Hendley and features an array of UGA Theatre & Film Studies alumni. The limited run production opened January 9 Off-broadway at New York's Chain Theatre and runs until January 21:

In 2022, Theatre undergraduate Collin Hendley was named the recipient of the Department of Theatre & Film Studies' annual New Georgia Group Grant, funded by a contingent of alumni to bolster original theatrical works. The play at the center of that grant, an original musical called Brighter Than the Sun, is now running Off-Broadway at the Chain Theatre on 312 West 36 Street in New York, NY.

Brighter Than the Sun features features an array of UGA Theatre & Film Studies alum. Caroline Leggett (A.B. Theatre, 2023) serves as director, a role she previously filled during the shows initial run in the Cellar Theatre of the Fine Arts Building. Hannah Grace Laughlin (A.B. Theatre, 2023) serves as co-producer and Emma Ruth Mathews (A.B. Theatre, 2020) serves as choreographer as well as ensemble member.

Congratulations to these terrific young theatre artists and Franklin alumni. Their success is [also] a wonderful story of the department of theatre and film studies alumni investing in original theatre works. Very well done! The hard work and dedication of our alumni demonstrates what can happen when you get involved and persevere. Success awaits!