REBECCA LUKER
Rebecca Luker, who graduated from the University of Montevallo in 1984, enjoyed a lengthy and distinguished career as a virtuoso actress, concert soloist and recording artist. Her operatic soprano voice led to her starring in nine Broadway musicals, and she was nominated for three Tony Awards. Her work included performances in “Phantom of the Opera,” “The Secret Garden,” “Showboat,” “The Sound of Music,” “The Music Man” and “Mary Poppins.” She also appeared in a number of acting roles on television including “Law and Order, Special Victims Unit,” and “The Good Wife”. In addition, she enjoyed teaching master classes and coaching up-and-coming performers.
A vocal performance major, Luker was previously awarded an honorary doctorate from UM and remained actively involved with UM throughout her life. To honor Luker’s memory following her passing in 2020, the University of Montevallo named the stage of the Center for the Arts after her. Click here for more information and see the link below for the Broadway World article.
Broadway World – UM Alumna Rebecca Luker
In addition, the Rebecca J. Luker Endowed Scholarship was established through the University of Montevallo Foundation, by loyal UM alums and supporters. The Rebecca J. Luker Endowed Scholarship will benefit students in the visual, media, musical, and theatrical arts who aspire to a professional career in those creative fields. For more information please see the link below.
A digital archive of tributes to Rebecca Luker by co-performers and friends has been created, edited, and donated to the University by Sarah Rebell. Access the transcripts of these oral histories below.
Rebecca Luker Oral History Project
