Winners of 2015 Illinois High School Musical Theater Awards Announced

In celebration of outstanding achievement in high school musical theater performances, Broadway In Chicago has announced the award recipients of the Fourth Annual Illinois High School Musical Theater Awards: Ben Love of Byron, IL (Byron High School) as BEST ACTOR for his portrayal of Edward Bloom in BIG FISH and Grace Etzkorn of Lisle, IL (Benet Academy) as BEST ACTRESS for her portrayal of Winifred Banks in MARY POPPINS. Ben Love and Grace Etzkorn will represent the state of Illinois at The Jimmy Awards in New York on June 29, 2015.

Joliet West High School was awarded the Grosh Scenic Design Award, a newly-established honor celebrating excellence in scenic design, for their production of INTO THE WOODS.

On Monday, June 1, Broadway In Chicago crafted a full day of workshops with theatre professionals for twenty-four finalists that culminated in a performance on stage at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place. During the day, finalists auditioned for a panel of casting agents and theater professionals who chose the recipients of performance awards.

In addition to the day of workshops featuring Brad Musgrove, Associate Choreographer of PIPPIN, finalists will receive tickets to see PIPPIN in Chicago, playing the Cadillac Palace Theatre July 29 through August 9.

Ben Love and Grace Etzkorn will be provided with an all-expense paid trip to participate in a performance enrichment program, representing the state of Illinois at the National High School Musical Theater Awards, on Broadway, on Monday, June 29, 2015. The National High School Musical Theater Awards, also known as The Jimmy Awards, are named for legendary Broadway theater owner and producer James M. Nederlander. Broadway In Chicago is a Nederlander presentation, and is excited to join the network of theatres across the country participating in The Jimmys.

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