Jim Lewis ’79, a history and philosophy major at Colorado College, has been nominated for his work on “Fela!,” the Broadway musical that has received 11 Tony Award nominations. Lewis and Bill T. Jones were nominated for “Best Book of a Musical,” which is awarded to librettists of the spoken, non-sung dialogue, and storyline of a musical play. The award originally was called the “Tony Award for Best Author,” until musicals were split from dramas.
“Fela!” is about 1970s Nigerian musician and political activist Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and explores the extravagant, decadent, and rebellious world of the Afrobeat legend. The Tony Awards will be presented on June 13 at Radio City Music Hall. “Fela!” is tied with musical revival “La Cage aux Folles” for the most nominations.