By Markita C. Rowe
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University theatre arts program alumna NaTasha Yvette Williams ‘92 has won a 2024 Grammy Award as a principal vocalist.
Williams triumphed in the category of Best Musical Theater Album for her outstanding contribution to “Some Like It Hot,” a jazz age musical adaptation of the beloved 1959 Billy Wilder film.
This is Williams’ second Grammy nomination and her first Grammy win. She was nominated in 2012 as part of the Broadway musical ensemble, “Once: A New Musical.”
“We are thrilled by Ms. Williams’ Grammy win and her flourishing career across Broadway, theatre and music,” said Frances Ward-Johnson Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CAHSS). “Seeing her succeed validates the importance of our theatre arts program’s educational foundation, instilling the skills and values crucial for such accomplishments.”
Williams earned a BFA from N.C. A&T and MFA in acting from Michigan State University. In 2023, she received nominations for Outstanding Featured Performer in a Broadway Musical (Outer Critics Award) and Best Featured Actress in a Musical (Tony Award) for her exceptional performances in “Some Like It Hot.”
In addition to her celebrated performances in “Some Like It Hot,” Williams has impressed audiences with her captivating portrayals in various productions. Standout highlights include her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in “A Night with Janis Joplin,” as well as her roles in “Porgy and Bess” and the acclaimed Broadway production “The Color Purple.” Furthermore, she has showcased her vocal talents with orchestras such as the Indianapolis Symphony, Naples Philharmonic, and Baltimore Symphony.
In 2021, Williams delighted audiences with her performance in the Broadway family comedy “Chicken and Biscuits.”
“Our students were ecstatic to hear that theatre alum Natasha Williams achieved greatness and won a well-deserved Grammy,” said Miller Lucky Jr., associate professor of theatre in the CAHSS Department of Visual and Performing Arts. “Ms. Williams has always supported her alma mater and continues to make us proud. Her achievements confirm that the North Carolina A&T State University theatre program produces some of the best talent in the world.”
Williams received the 2021 A&T Alumni Achievement Award from CAHSS in recognition of her outstanding accomplishments, emphasizing her significant contributions to both the arts and her alma mater.
