Every year, the Nederlander Organization recognize America’s future Broadway stars with the National High School Musical Theatre Awards. The Jimmy’s (fondly named after Nederlander Organization president James M. Nederlander) awards one promising young actor and one promising young actress with merit scholarships, professional advancement and other prizes. This year, John Clay III of Oak Park River Forest High School and Taylor Marie Sherry of St. Charles North High School represent Illinois.
The program is the year-end culmination of awards programs across the country presented by dozens of professional theater organizations. Finalists in New York were named Best Actress or Best Actor at a regional competition, representing approximately 1,000 schools. While in New York City, participants experience five days of private coaching, master classes and rehearsals with theater professionals. The 2013 season culminates tonight at the Minskoff Theatre where 62 students will make their Broadway debut and compete for the coveted Jimmy Award.
Break legs and merde to all the students tonight, especially our very own John and Taylor! No matter who wins, you are all stars!
