Those of you who came along to Funny Women's London Nights back in February might remember Tamar Broadbent – her hilariously crafted musical comedy and West-End worthy voice went down a storm with our audience, having also scooped her a place in the quarter-final of the 2013 Musical Comedy Awards. Tamar is also an established actress, singer, writer and composer, beginning her career at the tender age of 12 when her first song, ‘Lucy’, received a mention in the 2004 UK Songwriting Contest.
We’re delighted to hear that Tamar’s original song, ‘17 Drafts’, has won the runner up prize and a ‘special commendation’ in the Stiles & Drew Best New Song Award 2013, which took place at the Garrick Theatre on Sunday 19th May. The national competition is supported by Mercury Musical Developments and seeks to recognize the best emerging British musical theatre writers.
The competition was judged by award-winning team George Stiles and Anthony Drew, along with Adam Cork, whose musical London Road was nominated for the 2012 Laurence Olivier award for Best New Musical. Other judges included Michael Grandage, Imelda Staunton and Matthew Scott. The ‘special commendation’ and second place prize was a new last-minute addition by the judging panel, who were so impressed by Tamar’s entry that they decided to create a separate award to recognize the quality of her work. Along with being the youngest writer to enter this year’s Awards, Tamar was also the only solo female performer.
‘17 Drafts’ was Tamar’s first attempt at a musical theatre song and became the signature composition from her original musical Pierced, which follows the stories of five teenagers after they finish sixth form. Having been written whilst Tamar was studying at Bristol University, Pierced was showcased in London last April, and continues to develop with workshops planned for Autumn 2013.
Tamar is also currently working on her solo musical comedy show, Tamar Broadbent: Almost Epic, for this summer’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Featuring 10 original songs, it will be throughout August at 4.45pm at the Underbelly.
For more information about Tamar and upcoming projects, please click HERE
