BOURBONNAIS, IL – The Illinois High School Musical Theater Awards (IHSMTA) celebrated the exceptional talent of young performers at their recent ceremony, where winners were crowned in various categories.
Coal City High School emerged as one of the night’s triumphs, clinching the highly coveted Best Direction Award.
Jack Micetich, the director of Coal City’s mesmerizing production of “Anastasia,” was the proud recipient of the Best Direction Award. Micetich’s impeccable vision and dedication shone through in his direction, earning him this well-deserved recognition. His students benefited from his guidance and showcased their remarkable skills on stage.
Other winners Monday were also honored for their outstanding contributions to high school musical theater. The award for Best Performer in an Actor Role went to Will Gonzalez from Mundelein High School, while Payton Fraser from Joliet West High School received the accolade for Best Performer in an Actress Role.
Maine South High School’s production of “The Addams Family” was crowned the Best Production of 2023 at the IHSMTA awards, showcasing the remarkable talent and dedication of the entire cast and crew. Thornton Fractional North High School’s production of “Once On This Island” secured the Best Ensemble Award, celebrating their exceptional teamwork and harmonious performances.
In recognition of their exceptional achievements, special congratulations go to Luke Skorjia from Crystal Lake South High School and Jazmin Rhodes from Homewood-Flossmoor High School, who were named runners-up for the Best Performer in Actor and Actress Role awards, respectively.
The Illinois High School Musical Theater Awards, presented by Broadway in Chicago and sponsored by NBC 5, hold significant importance in the world of high school theater. Winning an award at this prestigious event can provide a boost to a student’s college applications and future career prospects.
While the night may not have resulted in victories for all, the spirit of celebration and camaraderie prevailed. David Charles Morgan, the Director of the Bradley Bourbonnais Theatre Education Project, expressed his pride in BBCHS and the bold and dynamic arts community they belong to.
“No trophies for BBCHS theatre tonight….. but we are so proud of everything we achieved as a cast and as a team.” Morgan said in a Facebook post Monday night. “What we do is more important now than ever. Our art reflects what is beautiful about the world and dares to challenge what needs to be changed. Our art is a revolution and more than anything, I’m proud to be a part of this creative army working to impact the lives of young people and change the world!”
As the curtains close on another successful IHSMTA awards ceremony, the talented students of Illinois high schools continue to shine brightly. Their passion, dedication, and remarkable performances serve as an inspiration to all aspiring actors and actresses. Congratulations to all the winners and participants of the 2023 Illinois High School Musical Theater Awards.
