By Floyd Wayne

"Legends!" written by James Kirkwood and directed by Artistic Director, Gary Wright, won seven out of twelve Crow Awards at Chanticleers' 17th Annual Awards Gala on Sunday, January 24.

With a large audience in attendance, the awards show rocked the house. Special song and dance numbers were wonderful as performed by Father Mark Wiesner, Georgia Lee, Michael Keating and Dance 10 Performing Arts group. Pre-show piano stylings of Marty Nemko kept the audience entertained. All enjoyed an after-show reception with the actors and winners.

Top awards went to "Legends!" for best production; best director - Gary Wright (tie); best set design - Georgia Lee and Gary Wright; best actress - Charlotte Jacobs; best supporting actor - Kai Brothers (tie) and best supporting actress - first-time actress, Beverly Harris. "Light Up The Sky" won two Crow Awards for best director – Michelle Markwart Devveaux (tie); and best supporting actor, Michelle's father, Jay Markwart (tie). Best actor awards went to Bill C. Jones (tie) for "Never Too Late" and Ralph Marinaro (tie) for "Light Up The Sky." Best production honors went to "Never Too Late" (tie), directed by Barbara McKee and "Legends!" (tie), directed by Gary Wright.

A special recognition award was presented to long-time theatre-goer, Betty Heavenham for her commitment to Chanticleers Theatre and the shows it presents.

Plan on attending next year's Crow Awards Gala where the following shows will be honored from our 2010 season: "The Lion In Winter," "Arsenic and Old Lace," "Broadway Bound," and "Gypsy."