News Summary
Seymour High School has been recognized as the Best Overall Musical in the Curtain Call Tier at the Tennessee Theatre Marquee Awards for their production of ‘Newsies.’ The event, hosted by Broadway star Bailey McCall, celebrated high school musical theater talent from 21 schools across East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Along with Seymour’s win, Annika Kallstrom and Eli Solomon received awards for lead acting roles. The recognition showcases the importance of artistic opportunities for young performers in the region.
Seymour, Tennessee – Seymour High School triumphed at the second annual Tennessee Theatre Marquee Awards by winning the title of Best Overall Musical in the Curtain Call Tier for their production of “Newsies.” This recognition took place during a ceremony on May 25 that celebrated high school musical theater across the region.
The Tennessee Theatre Marquee Awards aim to celebrate and elevate the talents, education, and opportunities for high school students in theatre, fostering an inclusive community. Broadway star and Central High School alum, Bailey McCall, hosted the event, which recognized outstanding achievements in high school productions.
In addition to Seymour High School’s accolade, the event also honored exceptional performers in leading roles. Annika Kallstrom from South-Doyle High School received the Lead Actress Award for her role as Reno Sweeney in “Anything Goes.” Meanwhile, Eli Solomon from Bearden High School was awarded Lead Actor for his portrayal of Bert in “Mary Poppins.” Both winners will represent the Tennessee Theatre at The Jimmy Awards in New York City on June 23, showcasing their talents on a national stage.
A total of 11 categories were recognized during the Marquee Awards, with finalists presenting live performances during the occasion. Among the other notable winners were:
- Outstanding Choreography Execution: Christian Academy of Knoxville for “Cinderella.”
- Outstanding Student Design in Props and Scenery: Gracie Strader and Lucas Jones from South-Doyle High School for “Anything Goes.”
- Outstanding Student Design in Costumes: Oak Ridge High School Costume Team for “The Addams Family.”
- Outstanding Student Design in Choreography: Kaylee Koontz, Elaina Stringfellow, and Lily Walsh from Grace Christian Academy for “Newsies.”
- Outstanding Ensemble: Karns High School for “Guys and Dolls.”
- Outstanding Featured Actress: Tori Iler from West High School for “Cinderella.”
- Outstanding Featured Actor: Daniel Snoderly from William Blount High School for “Little Shop of Horrors.”
- Outstanding Overall Musical (Encore Tier): Karns High School for “Guys and Dolls.”
This year, the awards saw participation from 21 schools across East Tennessee and Western North Carolina, highlighting the breadth of talent in the region. The Marquee Awards continue to grow, supported by organizations such as the Tennessee Arts Commission and the Arts & Culture Alliance.
Future plans for the Marquee Awards aim to further expand participation and recognition of high school theater talent, continuing to nurture the artistic community and providing valuable opportunities for young performers.
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Additional Resources
- The Mountain Press: Seymour Among Winners of Tennessee Theatre’s Marquee Awards
- Wikipedia: Musical Theatre
- Tribtown: Seymour High School Varsity Chorale Presenting The Spongebob Musical
- Google Search: Tennessee Theatre Marquee Awards
- Mahomet Daily: Mahomet Seymour High School’s Madrigal Dinner Performance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theatre
- MassLive: Holyoke High School to Stage Spring Musical Little Shop of Horrors
- Google News: High School Musicals
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