Concordia grad Michael Lamon ‘09 has been nominated for a Tony Award as a co-producer for “The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window.” The show, written by Lorraine Hansberry, has been nominated for Best Revival of a Play, and is currently on its limited run on Broadway this month.
“It’s super weird but in a good way,” Lamon says. “If you would have asked me last year if I’d be having this conversation, the answer would probably be no.” Lamon emphasizes that it “takes a village” to put on a production like this and that it’s an honor to receive such recognition for everyone’s hard work.
Oscar Isaac and Gus Birney in a scene. Photo: Juliete Cervantes
“The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window” follows a progressive couple in the 1960s and their struggles with art, politics, and a difficult marriage. Lamon describes it as a dynamic show with something for everyone to resonate with. “It has a lot of different themes in it that really still speak to people today,” he says. As a co-producer, Lamon invests in the show in faith that it will succeed, and indeed it has.
Oscar Isaac and Rachel Brosnahan in a scene. Photo: Juliete Cervantes
“I look at a lot of different productions, and this was one that I really believed in,” he says. “From the story, the actors, the economics behind it, I felt strongly that this was really an interesting show from a historical perspective and had a good opportunity to produce.”
Lamon graduated from Concordia in 2009 with a Bachelor of Music degree. During his time here, he sang in The Concordia Choir and with the Fargo-Moorhead Opera, and is well versed in both choral and instrumental music. His extensive knowledge of and love for the arts gives him a fuller understanding of the shows he could possibly invest in and keeps him connected to his interests.
“The arts are a transcendent experience for folks, and to be able to continue to support them has intrinsic value for me,” he says.
Since taking the risk to move with his family from Minnesota to New York, Lamon has actively remained responsibly engaged in the world. Lamon, a veteran himself, has been a mentor for veterans and is happy to sit down with not only them but with Concordia alumni about his experiences and to get people connected.
“Network with people,” Lamon advises. “Don’t be afraid to set up a Linkedin profile or network with somebody who might have the expertise or knowledge in an area that you're looking for. Be intellectually curious about different things. Always be willing to ask questions. Figure out how to move the ball forward for yourself. Don’t be afraid to fail.”
Written by Tierney Jo Stewart '24
Read more about Lamon in The Bemidji Pioneer.