Second Annual Count Basie Theatre Awards

Local schools dominated the Second Annual Basie Awards, which recognize excellence in dramatic and musical theater productions in Monmouth County high schools, and the actors, directors, musicians, choreographers and crews who create them.

"Seussical," produced by Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School, swept the awards ceremony, winning in close to a dozen categories: Outstanding Production, Musical; Outstanding Direction, Musical; Outstanding Set Design, Musical; Outstanding Costume Design; Outstanding Musical Direction; Outstanding Orchestra; Outstanding Choreography; Outstanding Singing Featured Role; Outstanding Featured Ensemble Member; Outstanding Lead Actor, Musical; Outstanding Chorus.

Also winning in multiple categories was Red Bank Regional High School's production of "Pirates of Penzance," which took top honors for: Outstanding Lighting Design, Musical; Outstanding Ensemble Group, Musical; Outstanding Supporting Actress, Musical; Outstanding Lead Actor, Musical.

Also honored was Monmouth Regional High School's "Lost in Yonkers," which won for Outstanding Production, Drama; Outstanding Lighting Design, Drama; and Outstanding Supporting Actress, Drama.

RFH's production of "Jack and the Beanstalk" won for Special Theatrical Event. Evaluators Special Awards went to Ocean Township High School's production of "The Miracle Worker" and Ranney School's "Alice in Wonderland."

"Into the Woods," presented by Ocean Township High School, was recognized for Outstanding Set Design, Musical.

The awards ceremony took place May 28 at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank and featured musical highlights from nominated shows.

For more information about the Basie Awards program, contact Yvonne Scudiery, education director, at (732) 224-8778 ext. 106.