Each year, The Long Center in downtown Austin host an award show for the musicals performed by high schools in the surrounding area called the ‘Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Awards’. All schools nominated for ‘Best Production’ are given five minutes to perform a number from their musical.

“I’m so excited to perform at GAHSMTA,” senior cast member Jack Johnson said. “It’s great to be nominated for best production, we get to showcase all of our hard work from musical season again.”

The cast and crew were nominated for eight awards, including ‘Best Direction’, ‘Best Scenic Design’, ‘Best Musical Direction’, ‘Best Actress in a Supporting Role’ (junior Sophie Montani), ‘Best Lighting Design’, ‘Best Orchestra’, ‘Best Actress in a Supporting Role’ (senior Caroline Holmes), and finally ‘Best Production’.

“It feels amazing to be a part of such a great community of actors.” sophomore ensemble member Lars Eilers said. “I had lots of fun performing [the musical] before and to know that I got nominated for my hard work is great.”

In preparation for the event, the cast has held a few additional rehearsals to be sure that the opening number is just as exciting as it was in January and is fit for the Long Center Stage.

“Getting ready for GAHSMTA is difficult,” dance captain Katie Pizer said. “But adapting to the changes in the choreography has stuck really well and has made my job much easier.”

As far as nominations and awards go, the cast is excited to see the results and eager to perform in front of their peers.

“I’m more than proud of the cast,” Pizer said. “I can’t wait to see them lay it all out on the stage on Wednesday.”

After being nominated for eight awards, including best production, the musical cast will perform at GAHSMTA on Wednesday, April 17.