Indie Game 'Grand' Wins Tribeca, Taps Broadway Star Alex Brightman
British studio Friday Sundae's debut game, 'There Are No Ghosts at the Grand,' earned the top award at the 25th Tribeca Games Festival in New York City. The 'musical Lovecraftian renovation' title also cast two-time Tony nominee Alex Brightman as its lead voice actor, signaling significant international recognition for the independent developer and its unconventional creative process.
Key points
- The indie game "There Are No Ghosts at the Grand," described as a "musical Lovecraftian renovation" from British studio Friday Sundae, secured the top prize at the 25th Tribeca Games Festival in New York City.
- This award was granted among 12 submitted titles, with the announcement confirmed on June 12, 2026.
- Alex Brightman, a Broadway actor and two-time Tony Award nominee for Best Actor in a Musical (2016 for School of Rock, 2019 for Beetlejuice), was revealed as the voice of the game's lead character, Chris.
- Brightman’s other notable works include starring in Broadway’s Schmigadoon! and voicing multiple characters in the animated series Hazbin Hotel.
- Anil Glendinning, co-founder and managing director of Friday Sundae, described the studio as bootstrapped, emphasizing a highly collaborative and non-traditional development approach, including the 'pure luck' of casting Brightman.
- This dual recognition highlights the unique genre and independent spirit of the debut title, bringing it international attention from both the gaming industry and broader entertainment circles.
The independent British studio Friday Sundae has made a significant splash with its inaugural title, "There Are No Ghosts at the Grand," securing the coveted top honor at the 25th Tribeca Games Festival in New York City. This prestigious award, given to the genre-blending "musical Lovecraftian renovation" game, underscores a notable achievement for a bootstrapped developer entering the global stage.
Adding to its growing profile, the studio announced that acclaimed Broadway actor and two-time Tony Award nominee Alex Brightman will voice the lead character, Chris. Brightman, known for his roles in "School of Rock" and "Beetlejuice" on Broadway, as well as television appearances in "Schmigadoon!" and "Hazbin Hotel," brings considerable talent to the project.
Anil Glendinning, Friday Sundae’s co-founder, highlighted the studio's indie ethos and a development process that allowed for creative freedom, including the fortuitous casting of Brightman. The game, which received its top prize among 12 submissions, is drawing attention for its distinctive premise and the involvement of a prominent theatrical voice.
This double announcement, updated on June 12, 2026, positions "There Are No Ghosts at the Grand" as a title to watch, demonstrating how independent studios can gain international recognition for innovative concepts and strategic collaborations within the entertainment landscape.
Sources
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