Celebrating a Decade of Talent: Dr. Phillips Center's 10th Annual Applause Awards

Showcase proves to be pipeline to Broadway while supporting the performing arts and student scholarships

In the heart of our community lies a wealth of talent, nurtured and celebrated through programs like the Applause Awards. In its 10th rendition, the ceremony spotlights talented high school musical students -- some of whose journey began from our local and regional stages, all the way to reaching the bright lights of Broadway.

Tony Moreno (2017 winner), Sofia Deler (2017 winner), John Zamborsky (2018 winner), Miguel Gil (2021 winner) and Desmond Edwards (2016 participant) have all made their debut on Broadway and exemplify the power of passion and dedication within the arts.

Their success inspires many as we gear up for the 2024 Applause Awards, on Saturday, June 1, inside the Walt Disney Theater. This year’s Applause Awards features a record number of participants, with more than 3,000 individuals from across Central and North Florida.

"As we celebrate our Broadway-bound alumni, let's also recognize the ongoing community support that fuels future stars' and students' dreams," says Ryan Simpson, education director.

Broadway veteran Ray Roderick will direct his third Applause Awards production with Lauren Langa directing the music. Broadway celebrity and Dr. Phillips High School alum Michael James Scott will take the stage alongside former winners Samantha Nelson and Jackson Chase to host the showcase -- which will feature roughly 350 student performers.

"I am the product of the Orlando Arts community and the care it put into fostering young artists,” said Michael James Scott. “I see myself in all these young Orlando artists who have dreams of being in entertainment. To come back and be there to witness these talented young artists and be a part of this special evening is a big beautiful fierce gift.”

Fifty-seven productions from 34 schools will represent ten Florida counties across Central and North Florida this year. During the event, winners will perform in various categories recognizing excellence in singing, acting, dancing, supporting and lead performer roles. Five schools will be honored for Outstanding Musical, and two lead performers will be selected as the Applause Awards winners and Jimmy Award nominees, representing our community in New York City.

To date, the arts center has awarded more than $160,000 in scholarships through this program. To get involved and support the Applause Awards and student scholarships, email Development@drphillpscenter.org.

“The 2024 Applause Awards is the place everyone in Orlando will want to be,” James added. “It is the event of the summer, and you can say you were present when you saw the next mega stars of tomorrow.”

This event is made possible thanks to the support of AdventHealth, Chick-fil-A Greater Orlando Area, Experience Kissimmee, Kroger Delivery, OUC: The Reliable One, Florida Theatrical Association, the Chesley G. Magruder Foundation, the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Join us in celebrating the winners and the collective spirit of creativity and excellence that defines our regional arts community.

Tickets go on sale March 29, 2024, starting at $25, and can be purchased here.

Donate to the Arts For Every Life® Fund and support the Applause Awards.
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2023-2024 Applause Awards Participating Schools