The 16th annual National High School Musical Theatre Awards, popularly known as the Jimmy Awards, will take place at Broadway’s Minskoff Theatre on June 23. This prestigious event aims to celebrate the finest high school theatre talent across the United States. Renowned performer Josh Groban, currently starring in Sweeney Todd, is set to host the evening’s festivities.
The event will feature notable guest presenters including Julia Knitel, Apollo Levine, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Aki Nishino, and Jasmine Amy Rogers, who will all contribute to the excitement of the ceremony. This year’s nominees have received coaching from a distinguished group of theater professionals such as Jenni Barber, Lisa Brescia, and Julia Murney, among others.
A talented judging panel, which includes names like Montego Glover and LaChanze, is responsible for selecting the finalists and winners. A preliminary group of judges provided additional support, showcasing the collaborative nature of this event.
The ceremony, celebrating musical theatre excellence, will also be live-streamed for free starting at 7:30 PM ET on June 23 through Playbill, allowing theatre enthusiasts worldwide to tune in. The stream will remain accessible for three days following the event, allowing for broader audience engagement.
This year’s awards involve 110 nominees from 55 regional programs, all competing for the honor of Best Performance by an Actor and Best Performance by an Actress, closing the night with high-energy ensemble and solo performances.
The National High School Musical Theatre Awards, established in 2009, aims to elevate the profile of musical theatre in educational institutions, honor the dedication of teachers, and inspire the next generation of performers and fans. Since its inception, the program has garnered over $6,000,000 in educational scholarships, making a significant impact on the lives of numerous aspiring artists.
This annual celebration represents not just a recognition of individual talent but also serves as a reminder of the importance of the arts in education and the potential of young artists to reach incredible heights.