Molloy University proudly congratulates alumna Nichelle Lewis on her Tony nomination for ‘Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical’ for her portrayal of Sarah in the acclaimed Broadway musical Ragtime. Lewis is one of 11 nominees from the production, marking a significant achievement for both the artist and the Molloy University community.
A 2021 graduate of Molloy University’s renowned CAP21 Musical Theatre Program, Lewis received formal training through the University’s B.F.A Program housed within the School of Arts and Sciences. Nichelle made her Broadway debut in the 2024 revival of The Wiz playing the lead, Dorothy, for which she earned The Drama League award for ‘Distinguished Performance’ as well as a Theatre World award for ‘Outstanding Broadway Debut’. Her Tony nomination underscores the CAP 21 program’s longstanding commitment to preparing artists for excellence at the highest levels of the performing arts.
“Nichelle’s Tony Award nomination is a powerful reflection of her talent, dedication, and the rigorous artistic preparation she received at Molloy University,” said James Lentini, President of Molloy University. “We are incredibly proud to see one of our CAP21 graduates recognized on Broadway’s biggest stage, and we celebrate this milestone alongside her. I recall vividly her performance at Molloy in 2020 in our “virtual” Gala during the pandemic in a duet with Paul Schaffer from the David Letterman Show. To see her go from there to a Tony nomination is simply incredible.”
Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences Gina M. Florio echoed that sentiment, highlighting the role of the CAP21 program in shaping industry ready performers.
“Nichelle Lewis exemplifies the excellence, discipline, and artistry we strive to cultivate within the Molloy/CAP21 Musical Theatre Program,” Florio said. “Her success is a testament not only to her hard work, but also to the collaborative, conservatory-style training rooted in industry standards, innovation, and artistry that defines our B.F.A. program.”
The revival of Ragtime has received widespread critical acclaim, with Tony nominations spanning multiple performance and production categories. Lewis’ recognition places her among the most celebrated theatre artists of the season.
Molloy University, and the CAP21 Musical Theatre Program in particular, continue to produce graduates who make meaningful contributions to Broadway, national tours, television, and film. Lewis’ nomination adds to a growing legacy of Molloy alumni achieving distinction within the performing arts industry.
Learn more information about Molloy University and the CAP21 Musical Theatre Program.