School Participation

Participation is free and open to eligible high schools across eight counties. Each school produces one licensed musical between September and February, with adjudication provided by theatre professionals.

Benefits:

• Professional adjudicator feedback across 15+ categories.
• Opportunities for students to perform at Bass Concert Hall.
• Access to scholarships, workshops, and masterclasses.
• Entry into the Jimmy Awards® pathway.

Award Categories Adjudicated at Performances:

Best Lead Performer | Female Category
Best Lead Performer | Male Category
Best Supporting Performer | Female Category
Best Supporting Performer | Male Category
Best Featured Performer | Role
Best Featured Performer | Ensemble
Best Choreography
Best Costume Design
Best Direction
Best Ensemble
Best Lighting Design
Best Musical Direction
Best Orchestra
Best Production
Best Scenic Design
Best Technical Execution

Student Achievement Awards:

The Student Achievement Awards celebrate the creativity, leadership, and innovation of students working behind the scenes to make their school productions shine. Recognizing excellence in Design, Stage Management, and Marketing, these awards honor students who demonstrate initiative, artistry, and professionalism throughout the production process.

Directors nominate one student in each category, and nominees submit materials — such as design concepts, prompt books, videos, and marketing portfolios — for special adjudication by industry professionals. Through this process, the Heller Awards elevate the essential work of the next generation of designers, managers, and creative leaders, whose vision and dedication bring every production to life.

Ceremony Tickets:

• 2 comps per school
• Tickets are required if a seat is taken. Therefore, Nominees, Finale students, and Best Production companies must purchase tickets.
• Select Ensemble and student volunteers who work during the ceremony do not require tickets as they will not take a seat in the theatre. 
• Schools purchase tickets as a group ahead of general onsale to reserve seats together at a discounted rate.

Already participating?
Click on your school name below to go to your HS Theater portal for all HAYA details & more.