Clifford Gaschler

Since their inception in 1996 the Paper Mill Playhouse (Mark S. Hoebee-Artistic Director, Todd Schmidt-Managing Director) Rising Star Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre have ignited the careers of many notable performers, all of whom attended high school in New Jersey. Among the early nominees and winners are Academy Award® nominee Anne Hathaway, Tony® award winner Laura Benanti, and 2011 Tony® nominee, Nikki M. James.

After Monday night's Tituss Burgess Broadway at Birdland concert, everyone stuck around for a jam-packed Cast Party, hosted by Jim Caruso.