UNCSA alumni are nominated for Academy Awards

Alumni of UNCSA have been nominated for Academy Awards or worked on nominated films, announced today. Paul Tazewell, an alum of the School of Design & Production (B.F.A. ’86), was nominated for an Academy Award for best costume design for “Wicked.” This is his second nomination. Richard Redlefsen (H.S. Dance ’86) was a prosthetic makeup artist for “A Different Man,” which was nominated for best makeup and hairstyling.

“Wicked” was nominated in 10 categories including best picture. Several UNCSA alumni have connections to the film and Broadway and touring productions, including Tiffany Little Canfield (B.F.A. Drama ’00) who was casting director for the film.

“We are continually amazed by our UNCSA alumni, and could not be more proud when they are recognized by respected organizations like the Academy,” said Chancellor Brian Cole. “I also want to acknowledge the dozens of alumni who worked on films nominated by the Academy — from publicists to electricians; riggers to gaffers; production assistants to casting agents, UNCSA trains artists for careers of all kinds, and we celebrate the work that they do every day to contribute to the global entertainment industry.”

Paul Tazewell, a Tony and Emmy Award-winning costume designer, has shaped the visual storytelling of Broadway, film, television, dance, and opera for over 30 years. He made history as the first African American male nominated for an Academy Award for best costume design for Steven Spielberg's “West Side Story” (2021). A seven-time Tony nominee, Tazewell won for his work on the original Broadway production of “Hamilton.” His Broadway debut with “Bring in ’Da Noise, Bring in 'Da Funk” set the stage for iconic contributions to “In the Heights,” “MJ The Musical,” “The Color Purple,” and more.

Globally, Tazewell has designed for institutions like The Metropolitan Opera, Bolshoi Ballet, and National Theatre UK. His film credits include “Harriet” and Disney+’s “Hamilton,” and his television work earned him an Emmy for NBC’s “The Wiz Live!”

Notable accolades include two Lucille Lortel Awards, four Helen Hayes Awards, and honors from the Princess Grace Foundation. A graduate of UNCSA and NYU (M.F.A. ‘89), Tazewell has returned to UNCSA as a guest artist, has a scholarship named in his honor, and was the 2018 commencement speaker.

Richard Redlefsen is an Emmy Award-winning makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in film and television, specializing in prosthetic makeup and special effects. He was part of the Oscar-winning makeup team for “Bombshell” (2019) and has contributed to high-profile productions such as “Bullet Train” (2022), “Killers of the Flower Moon” (2023), and “Maestro” (2023). His television credits include “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Star Trek: Picard” and “Twin Peaks.”

After graduating from the High School dance program at UNCSA and working as a professional dancer, Redlefsen discovered his passion for theatrical makeup. He honed his skills at the EI School of Professional Makeup in Los Angeles and has since become known for his transformative artistry and innovative techniques.

The 97th annual Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, will take place on March 2 and will air on ABC and will stream on Hulu.

Information in this release reflects what could be obtained by press time; updates will be made as they are brought to our attention.

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February 25, 2026