The spotlight is officially on New Jersey’s next generation of performers as Paper Mill Playhouse kicks off its 2026 Rising Star Awards season, marking the program’s 31st year honoring excellence in high school musical theater.
Modeled after Broadway’s Tony Awards, the Rising Star Awards recognize outstanding student achievement both onstage and behind the scenes. This year, 114 high schools across 19 counties will participate in full adjudication, with productions running from February through April. A team of 55 professional adjudicators—experts in acting, music, dance, and design—will evaluate each performance.
The program continues to grow as one of the region’s most respected arts education initiatives, providing students with recognition, mentorship, and opportunities that extend far beyond the stage. For many participants, the Rising Star Awards serve as a launching pad for future careers in theater and entertainment.
In addition to school-based productions, applications are now open for the Outstanding Solo Performance Award, which allows students from any New Jersey high school to submit self-taped performances for consideration. The category expands access, ensuring talented performers can be recognized regardless of their school’s participation in the full program.
The Rising Star Awards also spotlight excellence through a range of special honors. Student-focused awards include $1,000 college scholarships for graduating seniors and the Student Achievement Award, which celebrates contributions in technical and leadership roles such as stage management, design, and production support.
Educators are also recognized for their impact through categories like the Educational Impact Award, which highlights programs that integrate theater into academic curricula, and the Theater for Everyone Inclusion and Access Award, honoring productions that create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The Outstanding Educator Award further celebrates teachers who bring creativity and inspiration into their classrooms.
Applications for these awards are open through April 24, with nominations set to be announced in mid-May.
The season will culminate in a highly anticipated awards ceremony on June 9, 2026, held live at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey, and streamed online for broader access. The event promises to celebrate not only the nominees and winners but also the power of arts education in shaping young voices.
Supported by a range of philanthropic partners and arts organizations, the Rising Star Awards continue to demonstrate the lasting impact of theater in schools—building confidence, fostering creativity, and inspiring the next wave of performers and storytellers.