Knoch grad recognized for Pittsburgh performance
Brecken Newton Farrell, a 2020 graduate of Knoch High School, is moving onward and upward after being recognized as Best Performer during Broadway World Pittsburgh's 2022 Regional Awards recently.
Farrell debuted professionally as Jesus in the Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s “Jesus Christ Superstar” in April 2022, and he says the experience has been foundational in his next steps as an artist.
“I think this show is one of the most important shows I’ve done so far in my life. It catapulted my professional acting career,” he said.
The rock musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice chronicles the days leading up to Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and the events that took place.
According to the Broadway World website, the news organization serves as an information hot spot for theater events throughout the nation. Recognition is awarded based on online votes from the public.
Though he’s not sure who nominated him for the Best Performer recognition, Farrell said he was humbled to have won.
“It’s nice that Broadway World does this, even if there’s no ceremony. At the end of the day, it’s recognition that what we do matters and has an effect on people,” he said.
The production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” also won the region’s “Best Musical” category, according to Farrell.
“With regional theater, there’s so (few) times where we get recognized in any way,” he said.
Since closing the show last May, Farrell has joined the Actors Equity Association union, thanks to credit he earned with “Superstar.” He said his next venture is the musical “Once” with the Pittsburgh Musical Theater.
“I’m really excited for that one,” he said of the show. “I’m excited to play some of my instruments during the run.”
When it came to expressing thanks for his award, Farrell extended gratitude to his family and friends as well as the Pittsburgh Musical Theater for the opportunity and training.
“(Superstar) was important to me. It’s something I wanted to do, and it’s still a credit I’m very proud of. I’ve done a bit since, and it was a very good experience,” he said.
