Union High School takes home NINE Paper Mill Rising Star Awards including Best Musical
What started as a dark and rainy day, turned bright and magical as the Union High School Performing Arts Company walked away with nine, the most awards won in one night, Paper Mill Rising Star Awards including the top prize, Best Musical, for their production of Duke Ellington’s Sophisticated Ladies. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Rising Star Awards, the night had that special feeling in the air as the students and staff entered the doors of the Paper Mil. Adding to the festivities, the awards were televised on Hometowne TV, allowing the night to be shared with friends and family members who couldn’t attend the awards. Director James Mosser shared “The entire company is elated. It is wonderful to receive recognition for all the hard work we have put in over the last few months. Especially when that recognition comes from a Paper Mill, who is so well respected in the theatre community.”
Achievements Include:
Outstanding Overall Production of a Musical
Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role – Kristian Adap
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble Group- The Sophisticated Gentlemen
Outstanding Performance by an Orchestra
Outstanding Achievement by a Teacher or Outside Director – James Mosser
Outstanding Achievement in Musical Director- James Mosser & Laura Muller
Outstanding Achievement in Choreography/Musical Staging- Jennifer Williams & James Mosser
Outstanding Lighting Achievement- Coby Chasman-Beck
Student Achievement Award – Assistant Director- Jasmine Durham
Union High School entered the competition as the most nominated school with sixteen nominations. The students also got a chance to perform a medley of songs from their award winning musical include excerpts from “Rug Cutter,” “Cotton Tail,” and “Don’t Mean a Thing.” Lead Actor and Actress Nominees Jonathan Duvelson, James Frazier and Bernice Onanuga also performed.
“Words can’t even begin to describe the emotions I’m feeling right now. The students of the cast, band and crew poured their heart and souls into this production and all of that hard work paid off. And to celebrate these accomplishments while celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Rising Star Awards??! – wow, what a truly special night. “ added choreographer Jennifer Williams
Submitted by Jennifer Williams
