BLAIR, NEBRASKA (MAY 16, 2024) Blair High School senior Derek Penner achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected to compete in the prestigious National High School Musical Theatre Awards, known as the Jimmy Awards. This honor is a testament to Penner’s exceptional talent, dedication, and hard work in musical theatre, and it places him among the top high school performers in the country.
The Importance of the Jimmy Awards
The Jimmy Awards are often referred to as the “Tonys for high school students” due to their significance in the world of high school musical theatre. Officially named the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, the Jimmy Awards bring together the best and brightest young performers from across the United States. Here’s why the Jimmy Awards are such a big deal:
- Prestige and Recognition: Winning or being nominated for a Jimmy Award is a notable achievement that can significantly boost a young performer’s career prospects. The awards provide national recognition and validate the hard work and talent of high school performers.
- Broadway Exposure: Participants perform on a Broadway stage, specifically at the Minskoff Theatre, home to productions like “The Lion King.” This experience is a dream come true for many aspiring performers and can lead to future opportunities in theatre and entertainment.
- Professional Development: The week-long program includes intensive training with Broadway professionals, offering coaching sessions, masterclasses, and rehearsals. This mentorship helps students refine their skills and gain invaluable insights into the professional world of theatre.
- Scholarships and Awards: The Jimmy Awards offer substantial scholarships and awards. Since its inception in 2009, the program has awarded over $6 million in educational scholarships, aiding students in furthering their education and training in the performing arts.
- Notable Alumni: Many past participants have gone on to achieve significant success. For example, Eva Noblezada, a 2013 participant, starred in “Miss Saigon” and “Hadestown” on Broadway and received Tony Award nominations for her performances.
Derek Penner’s Remarkable Achievement
Penner’s selection to compete in the Jimmy Awards is not only a personal triumph but also a proud moment for Blair High School and the entire city of Blair. Throughout his high school career, Penner has captivated audiences with his stunning performances, earning accolades and admiration from peers, teachers, and the broader community.
As Penner prepares to showcase his incredible talent in New York, the entire Blair community rallies behind him, confident that he will shine on the national stage just as brightly as he has at home. Penner will join 100 other students for a week of coaching with Broadway artists and industry experts, culminating in a performance at the Minskoff Theatre on June 24, 2024. This opportunity allows students to showcase their talents and compete for top performance awards, along with 14 additional awards and scholarships.
Penner’s accomplishment is celebrated as part of the larger Nebraska High School Theater Academy (NHSTA) program. The NHSTA program, run by Omaha Performing Arts (O-pa), recognizes outstanding performance and technical achievements in high school theatre across Nebraska. The program’s annual showcase will be held at the Orpheum Theater on June 13, 2024, where Penner and fellow honoree, Samara Follette from Lincoln Northeast High School, will be celebrated.
The NHSTA program, now in its 11th year, has grown significantly, impacting over 8,500 students across Nebraska. It provides students with learning opportunities from Broadway professionals and offers professional feedback on school performances. The program aims to celebrate the power of the arts and support high school and middle school theatre programs throughout the state.
For more information on the Jimmy Awards and the NHSTA program, visit Jimmy Awards and NebraskaHSTA respectively.
About Omaha Performing Arts (O-pa)
Omaha Performing Arts (O-pa) is the steward of the Orpheum Theater and the Holland Performing Arts Center, presenting a wide spectrum of performing arts and entertainment. O-pa is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility, serving a growing audience in Omaha and the region through a broad range of education and engagement opportunities. Recognized as Nebraska’s largest arts institution, O-pa is a leader both locally and nationally. For more information, visit O-pa.org.
Contact Information:
Makayla McMorris
PR Consultant, Omaha Performing Arts
Email: mmcmorris@o-pa.org
Phone: 402-661-8566
Website: O-pa.org
Follow Omaha Performing Arts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and Spotify.
