Lombardi, a new American play from Academy Award-winning playwright Eric Simonson, is based on the best-selling Vince Lombardi biography “When Pride Still Mattered”, by Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss.
Sport produces great human drama and there is no greater sports icon to bring to theatrical life than a man recognized not only as one of the greatest coaches of all time, but one of the most compelling and oft-quoted individuals in American pop culture in the 20th century. Though football’s Super Bowl trophy is named for him, so few know the real story of Vince Lombardi the man – his inspiration, his passion, and ability to drive people to achieve what they never thought possible. In a time when people continue to look for shortcuts to success, his story demonstrates that hard work, discipline, respect and time are the crucial elements to victory.
Light is stunning as his wife, a woman who reluctantly left her life in New Jersey for Wisconsin's frozen tundra. She wears a helmet of '60s-housewife hair, likes downing highballs and has some of the driest, funniest lines. The visiting journalist soon recognizes that she's the key person to talk to, much as she is the fulcrum of the play.
Vince Lombardi was bigger than life on and off the football field, a sports icon whose winning record and volatile character make him a natural for dramatic exploration. No doubt writer Eric Simonson saw the potential basing his play on a Lombardi biography by David Maraniss. And while he's blessed with a solid team, 'Lombardi' the play isn't entirely a winner.
2010 | Broadway |
Original Broadway Production Broadway |
Year | Ceremony | Category | Nominee |
---|---|---|---|
2011 | BroadwayWorld Awards | Best Featured Actress in a Play | Judith Light |
2011 | Drama Desk Awards | Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play | Judith Light |
2011 | Drama Desk Awards | Outstanding Set Design | David Korins |
2011 | Drama Desk Awards | Outstanding Set Design | Zachary Boroway |
2011 | Outer Critics Circle Awards | Outstanding Actress in a Play | Judith Light |
2011 | Tony Awards | Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play | Judith Light |
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