Clay returns for his 7th year to host the North Carolina qualifiers for the National High School Musical Theatre Awards.
The event will feature twenty student finalists as they compete live for their chance to advance to the national level at the Jimmy Awards in New York City. In addition to these Top 20 Student Finalists, student representatives from each participating high school will perform on DPAC’s stage as Ensemble members. Throughout the course of the evening, 12 awards will be presented recognizing excellence in a broad range of categories. You can look forward to special appearances from last year’s Best Actor Josiah Jennings, and Best Actress Carmen Sophia Dubon who will return to perform and to help announce the two students who will go on to compete nationally.
Join us on September 21st for a unique event honoring our Co-Founder and Board Chair, Clay Aiken, who has dedicated over 20 years to advocating for the inclusion of children with disabilities. Since Clay is unashamed at dispensing his own brand of playful teasing, we thought a night of comedy, with a little bit of comedic retribution was the best way to celebrate.
We’ve handpicked a few local comedians (See more about them below) to help us by serving up a few playful jabs at Clay to honor his achievements while also entertaining us with their funniest material to help raise money for inclusion. Get ready to laugh, cheer, and vote with your wallet for your favorite as our comedians battle it out for your favor.
A PERFORMANCE by Clay and the Band
The night will conclude with a special performance by Clay and the band including a setlist created by YOU! That’s right, this year’s setlist was chosen by those registered for the event! We’ve collected your song possibilities and counted your votes, and now Clay and the band are working to make it a great performance. THANK YOU to everyone who voted and donated!
WANT MORE? Join us for IMPROV!
The fun starts earlier that morning with an Interactive Improv Experience at Mettlesome Theater! Mingle with NIP board and staff while participating in an unforgettable experience, led by our comedy partners, where the audience (and Clay himself) becomes part of the act!
