About IHSMTA

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ADJUDICATOR AND SCHOOL APPLICATIONS FOR 2026-2027 IHSMTA WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON! SIGN UP FOR OUR EMAIL LIST ABOVE AND FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM FOR UPDATES

Broadway In Chicago is delighted to have high schools across the State of Illinois participate in the 16th Annual Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards, Sponsored by NBC 5. The Broadway In Chicago Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards (IHSMTA) celebrate excellence in high school theatre throughout the State of Illinois.

This year’s categories include Best Performer in an Actor Role, Best Performer in Actress Role, Best Production, Best Direction, Best Ensemble and Backstage Champion. Twenty-four nominees (12 in each Best Performance category) will perform on stage at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place (175 E. Chestnut) and compete in front of Chicago casting agents and theater professionals.

From the twenty-four nominees, two Illinois award recipients will go on an all-expense paid trip to New York City to represent the State of Illinois at The Jimmy Awards® and participate in a week-long theatre intensive of coaching and rehearsals with industry professionals in preparation for a one-night-only showcase on Broadway, where a panel of judges crowns the nation’s top performers. The Jimmy Awards® are named after legendary Broadway theater owner and producer James M. Nederlander. Broadway In Chicago is a Nederlander presentation and is excited to be a part of a network of theatres across the country participating in The Jimmy Awards®.

Important Dates

Adjudicator Applications Available: Week of August 31

School Applications Available: Coming Soon

School Applications Due: Coming Soon

Final Day for Adjudication: Sunday, April 18, 2027

2027 IHSMTA Ceremony Date: May 17, 2027

The Jimmy Awards®: Summer 2027 (exact date to be announced)