Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts honors high school musical theater with the 2025 Applause Awards, taking place Saturday, May 31, 2025, inside Walt Disney Theater in downtown Orlando.
Reminiscent of the Tony Awards, this annual event celebrates top talent in regional high school theaters, including teachers and students. This year’s 11th annual program includes more than 400 individuals, marking the highest participation since the program’s inception.
“The Applause Awards continues to grow, showcasing the incredible young talent in our regional performing arts community,” said Ryan Simpson, education director. “Last year’s sold-out performance was a testament to the program’s impact and this year promises to be another record-setting celebration of inclusion, accessibility and artistic excellence.”
Broadway veteran Ray Roderick will direct his fourth Applause Awards production, with Lauren Langa directing the music. Broadway celebrity and Dr. Phillips High School alum Michael James Scott will take the stage alongside program alumni AJ Morales and Emma Cate Davis to host the showcase, which will feature roughly 400 student performers.
“Coming home to host another year of the Applause Awards and witness the incredible talent of these young artists is truly special,” said Scott. “I see myself in each performer, all dreaming of the big stage and beyond. Orlando and the Dr. Phillips Center have built a remarkable pipeline of talent and these artists are the stars of the future! Being part of their special night is a big, beautiful, fierce gift, and I can’t wait to see everyone inside Walt Disney Theater!”
This year, 50 productions from 38 schools across 10 Florida counties in Central and North Florida will be represented. Winners will perform in various categories recognizing excellence in singing, acting, dancing, supporting and lead performer roles. Eight schools will be honored for Outstanding Musical, and two lead performers will be selected as the Applause Awards winners and Jimmy Awards nominees, representing our community in New York City.
The Applause Awards offers all participating college-bound students a chance to earn a scholarship. To date, the arts center has awarded more than $251,500 in scholarships through the Applause Awards program. To get involved and support student scholarships, contact the Dr. Phillps Center.
This Central Florida event is made possible through the support of AdventHealth, American Momentum Bank, Chesley G. Magruder Foundation, Chick-fil-A Greater Orlando Area, Experience Kissimmee, Florida Theatrical Association, Isermann Family Foundation, Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, OUC- The Reliable One, and PepsiCo.
Tickets can be purchased starting at $25 online.
