Broadway performer and Bradley alum Morgan Siobhan Green performed at Broadway Comes to Bradley on September 13 alongside Michael R. Jackson, an award-winning playwright, composer and lyricist. The event, hosted by Tom Richmond, took place at the Dingledine Music Center. This performance consisted of several Broadway favorites and some of Jackson’s own work.
Green hasn’t visited Bradley much since graduating in 2014 and was excited about her return.
“There’s such a nostalgic and warm fuzzy feeling revisiting a place that really shaped you as a human being,” Green said. “It feels good to share with others how a Bradley education really is what you make of it.”
Those in attendance were interested to learn that Green is a Bradley alum returning to share her passion with the community.
“It’s inspiring, especially as a person who loves musical theater and is minoring in it. I could be that person if I worked hard enough and had that much passion,” Gabby Sewell, a freshman political science major, said.
Broadway Comes to Bradley was a fun-filled night, connecting performers with students and other individuals within the community. The performance had its fair share of comedic acts and heartfelt moments, including “Old Mr. Drew,” performed by Michael R. Jackson, who prefaced this song with “Is anyone in here 17 or younger? Yeah? Well…Sorry!”
Another performance that received great attention was the final song of the night: “Friends on the Other Side,” performed by Green. Coming out strong with her vocals and a little bit of humor sprinkled between lyrics, Green finished off the night with one of her notorious “boy villain songs.”
The message behind Broadway Comes to Bradley is clear: don’t be afraid to push boundaries, pursue your dreams and support the fine arts.
“I think the message is that you can do it. If you love it, you do it no matter what anybody else tells you to do, no matter the struggle,” Sewell said.
Green expressed a similar sentiment.
“You’re the only person who can walk your path. It’s so easy to look to the left and to the right and feel like you’re missing out or someone has more than you,” Green said. “Life changes in a millisecond. So stay the course. If you love this, know you’re in it for the long haul.”
It’s easy to see that these performers are passionate about their work and draw inspiration from the raw and meaningful moments of their lives, dedicating themselves to their art.
“My mom has always been my biggest inspiration…I hope to be like her…she took her trials and hardships and turned it into empathy and heart,” Green said. “I think some of the best artists are those whose hearts have room for the experiences of others. There is so much humanity in listening to understand.”
Broadway Comes to Bradley was a motivational event that encouraged students to pursue their dreams and break boundaries.
As Green said, “It seems ironic to say, but truly BE YOU.”
