For the first time since the Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards (IHSMTA) began in 2012, all four Community High School District 155 high schools have been nominated in at least one category.

This year, three District 155 students earned nominations in individual performance categories:

• Corey Atkinson (Crystal Lake Central) was nominated for Best Performer in an Actor Role for his portrayal of Harold Hill in The Music Man.
   
• Lydia Jensen (Prairie Ridge) was nominated for Best Performer in an Actress Role for her role as Katherine Howard in SIX: Teen Edition.
   
• Aaron Yaccino (Cary-Grove) was nominated for Best Performer in an Actor Role for his role as Jack in Into the Woods.

In addition, two District 155 school productions received recognition:

• Crystal Lake Central’s production of The Music Man was nominated for Best Ensemble and Best Production.
   
• Crystal Lake South’s theatre director, Ben Stoner, was nominated for Best Direction for The SpongeBob Musical.

The IHSMTA is one of the top honors for high school musical theatre in Illinois. Each year, students from across the state compete for recognition in a highly competitive process, with over 315 students from 85 schools participating this year. Nominees are selected by a panel of industry professionals who evaluate performances in musical theatre productions.

“Being nominated is an incredible honor, and it wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of my cast, crew, band, and directors. This journey has taught me that doubt and fear are the only things standing between you and your dreams. Believe in yourself and see how far it can take you,” said Aaron Yaccino, nominated for best performer.

These students will participate in workshops with professional theatre artists leading up to a live performance on May 12, 2025, at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place in Chicago. Two students from the 24 actor and actress nominees will be selected to represent Illinois at the Jimmy Awards in New York City this summer.