Lethabo Mofomme Named Rising Star Winner

The Rising Star Competition, created by leaders of the legendary Rehearsal Club for their 105th Anniversary Celebration, was held at The Players on June 22, 2018. Lethabo Mofomme, a 2018 graduate of the NY Film Academy's Musical Theatre Conservatory received the exclusive "RC Key," designed to open the door of opportunity, and a cash prize.

The celebration evening paid tribute to actress and RC alumna Blythe Danner, winner of the Tony, Golden Globe and multiple Emmy Awards. Ms. Danner received the exclusive Rehearsal Club "Legacy Key."

Watch the tribute to Blythe Danner below:

In addition, celebrity gowns donated by Rehearsal Club Alums, Carol Burnett, Kim Cattrall and Blythe Danner; and, Broadway luminaries Anita Gillette and Chita Rivera, raised over $3,000 to fund the Rehearsal Club Documentary, New York Women in Film and Television, fiscal sponsor. The white mink worn by "Samantha" in Sex in the City was bought by the father of Rising Star Contestant, Olivia Jane Parisi.

Industry Judges included Tony Award Winner, Bebe Neuwirth; Casting Director, Tara Rubin, owner of Tara Rubin Casting; Agent, Teresa Wolf, owner of Wolf Talent Group; Leah Wedge, a representative from Carlton, Goddard and Freer Talent Agency and former professional opera singer, Daniela Sikora.

All performers are received professional vocal coaching and text interpretation from Sesame Street musical director, Tom Spahn, and veteran Director, Kathleen Conry. All contestants received gift certificates from Drama Book Store and enjoyed dining in the former home of Edwin Booth.

Hosting the evening is The Players, New York's storied social club for the dramatic arts and its patrons. The Players celebrates the rich cultural life of New York City with live performances, readings by leading authors and playwrights, film screenings, and dining in its famous Grill Room.