Categories: ArtEvents/What's HappeningFestivalsNews

Local Theater Groups Shine at 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta

Local theater groups showcase their talent at the festival in Atlanta.

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News Summary

The 2025 Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta showcased local talent from various schools, highlighting the incredible performances and achievements of groups like FAOPA and Magic Curtain Productions. The event featured standout actors recognized for their excellence and provided valuable workshops led by Broadway professionals. As these young performers excel on stage, they continue to highlight the rich tapestry of performing arts in the community.

Local Theater Groups Shine Bright at 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta

In a delightful showcase of talent and creativity, theater groups from various local schools took the stage at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta. Held from January 17 to 19 at the Cobb Convention Centre in Atlanta, Georgia, the festival brought together a fantastic community of aspiring performers from 136 groups across 30 states, as well as international locations. Talk about a theatrical extravaganza!

Showcasing Talented Performers

Among the standout representatives from the local scene were the Backstage Theater, Center Stage Youth Theatre, Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA), and Tampa Bay Performing Arts Academy. Each group had the exhilarating opportunity to perform a 15-minute excerpt from popular Broadway Junior musicals, impressing seasoned adjudicators along the way.

FAOPA took home the coveted Excellence in Acting Award for their stunning rendition of Disney’s Aladdin JR., captivating the judges with their exceptional ensemble work and engaging storytelling. It was a proud moment for the group, founded back in 2010, which focuses on nurturing performing arts in the community while encouraging self-discovery, creativity, and confidence among its students.

Spotlight on the All-Stars

In an exciting turn of events, two of FAOPA’s shining stars, Anna Beth James and Kat Baudoin, were recognized as Junior Theater Festival All-Stars for their stellar performances. Their hard work and dedication really stood out in a competitive environment filled with talent. The energy was palpable as these dedicated performers showcased their skills in front of a panel that included Broadway legends and esteemed educators from top institutions like the University of Utah.

Morgan Sheriff, a familiar face at JTF Atlanta over the years, proudly accepted the Sheridan Giles Technical Theater Award in 2024, further emphasizing the dedication and talent within this vibrant community. The competition team at FAOPA has made waves since its establishment in 2021, performing fan-favorite shows such as Junie B. Jones Jr., Children of Eden Jr., and Once on This Island Jr.. And there’s still more to look forward to, as a new competition team prepares to present Seussical Jr. this year.

A Community Driven by Passion

FAOPA’s mission to promote the performing arts also extends beyond competitions. They offer various programs that help students grow personally while working collaboratively on productions. Many of their students have participated in notable performances and competitions nationally, proudly bringing home several awards, including achievements in Excellence in Music and Excellence in Ensemble. The passion and commitment these young performers bring to the stage is truly inspiring!

Magic Curtain Productions Shines

Not to be outdone, fellow local group Magic Curtain Productions also made waves at JTF Atlanta, winning the Excellence in Ensemble Award. Their fantastic presentation of 13 the Musical JR. earned praise for impressive vocal performances and captivating storytelling. Two of their talented members, Emily Bankowitz and Madeline Abbott, were also named Junior Theater Festival All-Stars, adding to the celebrated roster of local talented performers shining at the festival.

A Festival Full of Possibilities

The 2025 JTF Atlanta wasn’t just about competition; it served as a hub for learning and growth, featuring engaging workshops and inspiring performances from Broadway professionals. Participants had the chance to interact with actors and composers from various Broadway productions, boosting their educational experience to new heights.

As local theater groups continue to showcase their exceptional talent on stages across the country, it’s clear that the future of the performing arts is bright. With commitment and collaboration, these young performers exemplify what it means to be part of a thriving community. Who knows what may come next in their theatrical journeys? The world is eagerly watching!