On Monday, June 29, an enthusiastic crowd of over 800 parents, teachers, friends, Broadway veterans and industry leaders gathered at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, New York University for the first annual National High School Musical Theater Awards™.

They were not disappointed! Emotionally-charged performances by 32 talented Jimmy Award™ nominees literally brought the audience to their feet.

A week of rehearsals and private coaching on the NYU campus at NYU Tisch School of the Arts culminated in a live awards show hosted by television and theater personality Kathie Lee Gifford. The show featured dynamic performances by students representing regional award programs of professional theaters from around the country.

This remarkable production, produced by Pittsburgh CLO and Nederlander Alliances, LLC, culminated in the presentation of The Jimmy Award™ named in honor of legendary Broadway theater owner and producer James M. Nederlander. For more information, please visit www.nhsmta.com.

Seth Johnson who participated in the program states, “The NHSMTA was an incredible opportunity for a variety of reasons. First of all, it was a great way to meet talented kids from all around the country that are just as passionate about the arts as we are. Secondly, the caliber of training we received in just four days forced us to stay focused. I learned a lot about myself from the adversity of practicing from 9am-10pm every day. I learned that I really could dig deep and find the focus necessary to succeed if I was pushed hard enough and if I really tried. Lastly, the people we met and networking opportunities were unmatched. We all know that we will all keep in touch with each other for the rest of our lives - all the nominees got along so well. Moreover, the names that were involved with this endeavor will take this event even more to the forefront. Who knows what kind of benefits we may reap from the exposure we already had that one night of the showcase. I can only imagine the national prestige this event will hold for future nominees.”