Congratulations to Nora Palka '08, winner of the Helen Hayes Award for "Outstanding Lead Performer in a Musical" for her role as Flora Conrad in the May 2019 production of "On Air" at the Creative Cauldron Theater in Falls Church, VA. Nora received the award during a virtual announcement ceremony on Monday, August 31, beating a broad Metro area-wide field.
Nora writes: "Frank Conrad was a pioneer in radio development. He became the driving inspiration for the first ever mass broadcasting radio station in the 1920s. His wife, Flora, a suffragist, undoubtedly knew how important it was to keep the public informed on legislation being passed, like a woman's right to vote, and used her husband's talent to spread the word. This great American story is unknown to many, but changed the way we take in our media, listen to music and receive the news for the better. Now, more than ever, it is so important to honor the legacy of the Conrad's and all of their hard work. It makes me so proud to accept this award on their behalf and that it can represent a small part of their legacy."
Helen Hayes attended the Holy Cross primary school (when it existed in Washington, DC) as a child.
