Central Florida — May 2021 —
Musical theater students from 21 local high schools will receive an “Applause Award” from the Dr. Phillips Center for their performance this year and may be selected to represent Central Florida in a national musical theater competition in New York this June.
Five Cornerstone Charter Academy students have been named “Applause Award” winners. [photo credit: Carey Sheffield] Cornerstone Charter Academy is a K-12 public charter school located in Belle Isle, Florida (Orange County).
Modeled after the American Theatre Wing‘s Tony Awards, the Dr. Phillips Center “Applause Awards” are presented in 21 different categories, including Outstanding Musical, Lead and Supporting Performers, Director, Choreographer, and Set and Costume Design. An awards show is being planned for Saturday, June 1 at the Dr. Phillips Center, with tickets available to the public at drphillipscenter.org.
From August through April, industry experts review productions from more than 30 schools in seven Central Florida counties. Their detailed reviews are then used to determine awards in specific categories, and Dr. Phillips Center hosts a ceremony in June on the Walt Disney Theater stage. Modeled after the Tony Awards®, this high-energy evening includes a performance by almost 500 participating students—plus performances by the nominees for lead actor, lead actress, and best musicals.