Winners of the 2024/2025 Cappies awards celebrated for outstanding achievements in high school theater

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – The 23rd Annual Cappies Awards ceremony, held at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, celebrated the exceptional talents of high school theater students from 28 public and private schools across Broward and Palm Beach counties. This event recognized the dedication and creativity of students involved in various aspects of theater production.

NSU University School in Davie emerged as a standout, securing 11 awards, including Best Musical for their rendition of Hadestown: Teen Edition. This achievement marked the second consecutive year the school received the highest number of accolades at the ceremony. Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach also garnered significant recognition, taking home 10 awards for their production of Metamorphoses, which included the prestigious Best Play award.

Jacob Aronin, Director of Education for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, praised the participants:

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“All of the winners and nominees deserve a standing ovation for their dedication to excellence in the performing arts. Their participation will have a lasting impact well beyond high school,”

He also acknowledged the vital role of educators and families in supporting these young artists:

“We must also recognize the commitment of theater educators and the unwavering support of parents and families, and we thank them for sharing their students with us. We are proud to once again host the newest generation of theater makers and storytellers.”

The Cappies Awards program is unique in its peer-driven approach. Student critics attend productions at other schools, write reviews, and nominate candidates. Winners are then selected through a weighted peer-review voting process, ensuring that the recognition comes from fellow students who understand the intricacies of theater production.(southfloridatheater.com)

Lori Sessions, South Florida Cappies Founder and Chair, expressed her pride in the program’s longevity and the quality of student performances:

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“I’m so proud of the volunteers who have made the Cappies program run for 23 years. The student performances this year were outstanding. During a time when arts funding is being cut in our schools and communities, I’m grateful we could come together to celebrate the high caliber of theater education in Broward and Palm Beach counties.”

The awards spanned various categories, highlighting not only performers but also those behind the scenes. For instance, Dreyfoos School of the Arts received accolades for their ensemble work, stage management, and lighting in Metamorphoses. Other schools, such as American Heritage School and Archbishop McCarthy High School, were recognized for their contributions in orchestra performance and stage management, respectively.(browardcenter.org)

The Cappies Awards continue to be a testament to the vibrant high school theater scene in South Florida, showcasing the dedication, talent, and collaborative spirit of students, educators, and communities committed to the performing arts.