TRAVERSE CITY -- On a telephone call stretching almost 900 miles across the United States, Nick Demos relived the moment he found out Memphis, his Broadway producing debut, was nominated for eight Tony Awards.
“We literally were jumping up and down, crying, screaming and that was followed by Champaign,” said Demos.
Demos said it was a long and winding road that led to Broadway.
During the late 1980’s, Demos shined at the Old Town Playhouse in Traverse City.
“The people there allowed me, at that point in my life, to learn every aspect of theater, which is what a producer needs to know,” Demos said.
While his successes continue to accumulate in the Big Apple, it’s his experience in Traverse City that he cites when discussing his distinguished carrier.
“I do have to say that if it weren’t for the Old Town Playhouse I would not be here. There is no question about that,” Demos said.
Old Town Playhouse Executive Director Phil Murphy remembers Demos as a young teen, developing the skill set required to produce a Broadway play.
“He was 16, and I sat down with him and I said this is what I want you to do….work with these dancers…and he blew me and the audience away with his ability,” Murphy said.
Years removed from his time in Traverse City, Demos is now anxiously awaiting the Tony Awards Ceremony on Sunday, June 13, when his Broadway debut, Memphis, has the chance to bring home eight Tony Awards.
