Belmont University’s Department of Theatre and Dance and the Nashville Shakespeare Festival earned the 2025 BroadwayWorld Regional Award for Best Play for their co-production of “Pride and Prejudice.” Honoring regional productions and touring shows, the awards highlight artistic excellence across areas of performance, choreography, design and direction.
Originally taking the stage in February 2025, the production featured six Belmont students performing alongside industry professionals under the direction of Jason Spelbring, artistic director of the Nashville Shakespeare Festival. Reimagining a beloved classic for the modern stage, the production explored the intricacies and nuance of love in fresh and unexpected ways.
“Last year, working on ‘Pride and Prejudice’ with the Nashville Shakespeare Festival as an assistant costume designer was such an incredible opportunity at Belmont,” shared senior theatre major Keira Maupin. “It was a wonderful introduction to the world of professional theatre, and I learned so much about collaboration and communicating with multiple teams.”
Maupin said that collaborative environment helped students form a cohesive story through each of their respective pieces of the production. “I’m so proud of the whimsical world we made together. Seeing our work honored by BroadwayWorld means so much because working with everyone was such a joy,” she said. “It’s a privilege to share this recognition with our cast and creative team.”
This recognition highlights Belmont’s commitment to experiential learning through partnerships like the Nashville Shakespeare Festival. Across programs in production, directing, education and performance, students gain hands-on experience that reflects the collaborative interdisciplinary nature of the performing arts industry.
At a Glance
Learn more about studying Theatre and Dance at Belmont