The Kalamazoo theatre community was all abuzz this morning about last night's Tony Awards.

An actress that area theatre patrons have been watching since she was a child has made it big on Broadway.

Actor Mike Helms tipped us off to the fact that Hannah Ellis (Schubkegal when she lived here) is starring in "Godspell" and during last night's broadcast was seen boogying in the aisle with Hugh Jackman.

Ben Zylman, marketing director of The Kalamazoo Civic said she delivered many memorable performances on that stage including Helen Keller in "Miracle Worker" and Belle in "Beauty and the Beast".  She also appeard with Whole Art Theatre and All Ears Theatre productions in Kalamazoo.

After graduating with a BFA in Music Theatre Performance at WMU, she appeared in regional theatre and national tours before being cast in "Godspell" just a few short months ago.

It's every actor's dream to be on Broadway.  Congratulations to Hannah Ellis for doing Kalamazoo proud!