Drama students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School surprised audience members at the glitzy Tony Awards on Sunday with a rendition of ‘Seasons of Love’ from the musical ‘Rent’.
They received a standing ovation and some in the crowd were brought to tears.
Earlier, their teacher Melody Herzfeld received the Excellence in Theatre Education Award.
The prize is given annually to a K-12 theatre teacher by the Tony Awards and Carnegie Mellon University.
Melody Herzfeld, drama teacher at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School, accepts her award. Source: Getty
“Next to the passing of my dear parents and in-laws, marrying the love of my life and the birth of my amazing sons and reuniting with my theatre students, there has never been a more defining moment of my life,” she said at Radio City Music Hall in New York.
“All the goodness and tragedy that has brought me to this point will never be erased.
“We all have a common energy. We all want the same thing. To be heard. To tell our truth. To make a difference. And to be respected. We teach this every day in every arts class.”
Mrs Herzfeld, who will receive a $10,000 prize for her theatre program, has led more than 50 productions at Stoneman Douglas since 2003.
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School drama students performed 'Seasons of Love'. Source: Getty
She was on campus on February 14 when a former student opened fire on students and staff. She saved 65 lives by hiding them in an office during the two-hour rampage before authorities arrived.
She was also instrumental in encouraging her pupils to lead the nationwide movement for gun reform, including organising the March for Our Lives demonstration.
Glee star Matthew Morrison praised Mrs Herzfeld for her service.
“Melody, as a former teacher, I want to add my heartfelt gratitude and personal congratulations to you,” he said.
