Georgia Military College Preparatory School Enters the Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards

Georgia Military College Preparatory School is proud to announce its participation in this year’s Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards (GHSMTA), also known as the Shuler Awards. This marks the first time that GMC Prep has entered this esteemed statewide competition, which celebrates excellence in high school musical theatre across Georgia. 

Under the direction of both Major Jennifer Morris, the Middle School Musical Theatre Director, and Mark Weaver, GMC’s Fine Arts Director, GMC Prep students will perform Chicago: Teen Edition. This production will be evaluated in its entirety, allowing the judges to experience the full production value that GMC’s theatre has to offer. The school is eligible for nominations in various categories, including Overall Production, Direction, Music Direction, Choreography, Ensemble, and Leading Performers, among others. 

“The Fine Arts play a vital role in the development of our students, enhancing their creativity, critical thinking, and ability to work collaboratively,” said Lieutenant General William B. Caldwell, IV (RET), President of Georgia Military College, “This is an exciting opportunity for our students to shine and for GMC to further demonstrate the depth and breadth of talent within our institution.” 

After returning to GHSA One Act Play competition in 2012, GMC has won seven state championships, including the last three in a row. “We wanted to try a competition that would put our students against the very best schools in the state, regardless of school size,” said Mark Weaver.  “The Shuler Awards are more than a competition; ArtsBridge has created an event that is truly a celebration of musical theatre, and the excitement of our students about participating this year is incredible.” 

As GMC Prep embarks on this journey, Weaver also noted that the school will not participate in the GHSA One Act competition for the 2024-25 season but will return to that competition in the fall of 2025. 

“We are excited to embark on this new journey and learn the ins and outs of a competition that is brand new to us,” added Major Morris. “This opportunity allows our students to showcase their talents in our own theatre, where the judges will not only see the show but also gain a deeper understanding of our program, school, and students.” 

The GHSMTA, modeled after Broadway’s Tony Awards, honors the achievements of high school musical theatre programs across the state. The awards are named after Tony Award-winning actor and Georgia native Shuler Hensley. Nearly 5,000 students from high schools across Georgia participate annually in this transformative program, which offers scholarships, industry training, and the chance to perform on a professional stage. 

In addition to the primary awards, GMC Prep students will have the chance to compete for special awards such as the Showstopper Award, Spotlight Award, and Standing Ovation Award. Moreover, two students will have the opportunity to join the Shuler Ensemble, and two tech students will participate in the STAR (Students Take A Role) Council, further enhancing their learning experience. 

“Our students have already begun working on design elements, choreography, music, set construction, and costumes for Chicago: Teen Edition. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and look forward to taking on this new challenge,” Major Morris said. 

Participants in the production will be announced after the second step of the registration process, expected to be completed by the end of August. As the journey continues, GMC Prep is eager to see their students shine in this exciting new endeavor. 

For more information on the Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards, visit ArtsBridgeGA.org.