Douglas Anderson Students Sweep Applause Awards for Second Time in Three Years

DA Theatre had an unforgettable evening at the 12th Annual Applause Awards on May 30 at the Walt Disney Theatre in Orlando's Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. More than 400 students from 46 high schools across Florida came together to celebrate excellence in musical theatre, and DA Theatre's students once again demonstrated why they are among the very best in the state.

Leading the way were Class of 2026 graduate Abby Harrell and sophomore Josef Wright, who were named Female Winner and Male Winner, respectively, for their performances as Hildy and Ozzie in On the Town. Both will travel to New York City this month as Jimmy Awards nominees, representing the Applause Awards on the national stage at the Minskoff Theatre, home of Broadway's The Lion King. This marks the second consecutive year that both performers have been recognized among the state's top musical theatre students, with Abby previously competing as Natalie in Next to Normal and Josef earning First Runner-Up honors for his performance as Hermes in Hadestown.

The evening brought even more reasons to celebrate. Junior Alayna Martus was named First Runner-Up for her role as Percy in The Spitfire Grill, matching the distinction she earned last year. She also received BFA pre-screen passes from the University of Florida, University of Central Florida, and Florida State University, a special honor awarded to only a select group of juniors. Five DA Theatre seniors were recognized with scholarship awards as part of the more than $200,000 distributed by the Dr. Phillips Center. DA scholarship recipients were:

• Audrey Dunham

• Ava Chung

• Damian Mathews

• Emarra Hogan

• Kordell Clark

Adding to the excitement, DA Theatre's production of On the Town received the Outstanding Musical Award, giving the cast one final opportunity to perform Ellie Potts Barrett's spectacular choreography on the Applause Awards stage. The night was made even more special by the return of DA Theatre alumnus and 2024 Jimmy Awards nominee George Eastman, who served as co-host alongside Broadway performer Michael James Scott. It was truly a remarkable evening celebrating the talent, dedication, and bright futures of DA Theatre students and alumni.

Watch Abby and Josef compete in The Jimmy Awards Monday, June 22, 2026 at 7:30 pm on The Jimmy Awards YouTube Channel.