From Essex to Broadway: Todd Ellison
In partnership with the Community Music School, A 40th Anniversary Celebration
Hailed by The New York Times as one of “Broadway’s Electric Conductors” and “the closest thing to Marvin Hamlisch we’ve discovered” by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Todd Ellison is one of the most accomplished and sought after musicians working today. Among his Broadway credits are An American in Paris, Annie, La Cage aux Folles, Spamalot, 42nd Street, On the Town, Once Upon a Mattress (starring Sarah Jessica Parker), and How to Succeed … (starring Matthew Broderick). Todd has composed an award-winning musical and written and, performed his own songs for an album on iTunes. He has conducted at Vienna’s Konzerthaus and at Carnegie Hall, appeared in films and on multiple albums, and worked with everyone from Beyonce to Bea Arthur. And, we are very proud to say, he got his start right here, in Essex, Connecticut.
Todd, who spent his childhood years on Melody Lane, knew early on that musical theater was his calling. In fact, his first professional job was playing piano for Jesus Christ Superstar at the Ivoryton Playhouse. After decades under the bright lights of the big city, he and his family have chosen to make their home base in Lyme, and Todd is spending at least part of his time nurturing the environment that nurtured him. As a Board member of the Community Music School, he helps ensure that other young musicians have a shot at making it to the big time. We can’t wait to welcome Todd “home” at Essex Meadows in September, and then again, at a very special Community Music School 40th Anniversary Celebration event at The Kate on Saturday, October 14th. Please visit cmsct.org for more information.