Several area high school students are nominated for theater awards for outstanding achievement.
The Music Theatre of Wichita Jester Awards recognize outstanding achievement in Kansas high school musical theater by honoring students and schools in categories like production, performance, and technical design. This year, the Independence High School production of The Addams Family Musical received 17 total honors and nominations, including Outstanding Overall Production. Students Ryan Sandon was recognized as Lead Performer as Gomez Addams, while Brynlee Taylor and J.P. Tharp were honored as Supporting Performers.
Other area students to receive recognition include M.J. Ashen from Labette County High School for Lighting Design and Jaden Nash also from L-C-H-S for Sound Design.
These students will join others from 51 high schools across the state for the 24th Jester Awards on May 3rd in Wichita.
To see the complete list of 2026 Jester Award nominees, follow this link.
