©Evan Agostini/Invision/AP
Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- How do you think creative works, like movies or music, can impact people’s lives or emotions?
- Why should achievements be recognized?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- exemplary /ig-ZEM-pluh-ree/
- portrayal /pawr-TREY-uhl/
- artistic /ahr-TIS-tik/
- commitment /kuh-MIT-muhnt/
- enrich /en-RICH/
[adjective] – very good and suitable to be copied or admired
Her exemplary work in the project inspired the entire team.
[noun] – the way someone or something is represented in a book, film, or play
His portrayal of the king in the play was unforgettable.
[adjective] – relating to art or artists
She displayed her artistic talents by painting a beautiful mural.
[noun] – a promise or firm decision to do something
Her commitment to the charity has helped many families.
[verb] – to improve the quality of something by adding something else
Traveling to new countries can enrich your understanding of the world.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Cynthia Erivo was honored as the 2025 Woman of the Year by Harvard University’s Hasty Pudding Theatricals, a theater group established in 1844 and renowned as one of the oldest worldwide. The announcement, made on January 23, highlights her significant contributions to theater, television, and film. Erivo is set to receive the award at a ceremony on February 5, which will include a celebratory roast and a performance of 101 Damnations, the group’s 176th production. Actor Jon Hamm, widely recognized for his role in Mad Men, will be celebrated as the 2025 Man of the Year on January 31. These awards aim to recognize exemplary achievements in the performing arts and to underscore the impact of creative endeavors on culture and society.
Erivo’s career, marked by versatility and enduring excellence, includes prestigious awards such as a Tony for her role in The Color Purple and a Grammy for the production’s soundtrack. Her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha earned an Emmy nomination, further cementing her artistic influence. Recent projects, such as her role in the film Drift, demonstrate her commitment to impactful storytelling. Organizers of the Hasty Pudding Awards emphasized the group’s dedication to celebrating individuals whose work enriches the cultural landscape. The event’s history of honoring figures like Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts underscores its esteemed reputation in the arts community.
Erivo’s career, marked by versatility and enduring excellence, includes prestigious awards such as a Tony for her role in The Color Purple and a Grammy for the production’s soundtrack. Her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha earned an Emmy nomination, further cementing her artistic influence. Recent projects, such as her role in the film Drift, demonstrate her commitment to impactful storytelling. Organizers of the Hasty Pudding Awards emphasized the group’s dedication to celebrating individuals whose work enriches the cultural landscape. The event’s history of honoring figures like Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts underscores its esteemed reputation in the arts community.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- Who named Cynthia Erivo the 2025 Woman of the Year?
- When will Cynthia Erivo receive her award?
- What is the name of the theatrical production to be performed during the ceremony?
- Which other actor will be honored as the 2025 Man of the Year?
- Why was Cynthia Erivo chosen for this recognition?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever watched a play or movie that deeply inspired you? If so, what was it? If not, would you like to?
- Do you know of any famous people who have made a big impact on the arts? If so, who are they? If not, do you want to learn about them?
- Do you agree that recognizing creative contributions helps inspire others?
- What qualities make someone deserving of an award for excellence in the arts?
- What would happen if organizations stopped celebrating contributions to culture and the arts?