Laura Bell Bundy, star of Legally Blonde The Musical, joined Hilton Hotels and the American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards® to kick off a new national theatre education program this fall. Ms. Bundy, who received a 2007 Tony nomination for her performance, was on hand to welcome more than 30 under-served New York City students to a workshop as part of Hilton’s First Theatre Memories Program.

Held at the Hilton Times Square on October 27, the event featured Legally Blonde cast member Paul Canaan teaching students a choreographed song-and-dance number from the show. He also talked to the participants about his theatre experience. During the students’ final rehearsals, they were treated to a special appearance by Ms. Bundy, who helped them fine tune their routine and provided acting advice on how to enhance their stage presence. Following their mini-performance, the students attended a matinee performance of Legally Blonde.

The participating students were members of the Dorothy Day After School Program at Broadway Housing Communities, a New York City non-profit housing developer committed to providing innovative permanent housing for individuals and families in the greatest need.

This workshop was one of three hosted by Hilton Hotels, the Tony Awards and participating theatres in select cities between now and March 2008. As the program grows, other events and cities will be announced.

First Theatre Memories workshops are designed to enhance students’ appreciation for the arts and provide them with opportunities to experience a Broadway show for the first time. To further extend their theatre experience, participating students in each city can enter Hilton’s “First Theatre Memories” Writing Contest where one lucky winner will receive a free trip for two to attend the 2008 Tony Awards, which will be held at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall® on June 15th, and televised live on CBS.