Cy-Fair ISD Theatre Students Shine with Multiple Nominations at 2025 Tommy Tune Awards
The spotlight is bright on Cypress-Fairbanks ISD as theatre students from four local high schools—Bridgeland, Cypress Park, Cypress Ranch, and Cypress Woods—are being recognized among the best in Houston-area high school musical theatre. These students have earned prestigious nominations in 11 categories in the upcoming 21st Annual Tommy Tune Awards, hosted by Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS), which will take place June 6, 2025, at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.
Dubbed the "Tony Awards" for Houston’s high school theatre programs, the Tommy Tune Awards honor outstanding achievements in musical theatre, celebrating student performers, technical crew members, directors, and orchestras across the region. The awards are named after Tommy Tune, a Houston native and multi-award-winning Broadway legend known for his contributions to musical theatre as a performer, choreographer, and director.
Local Talent Recognized Across Multiple Categories
Bridgeland High School impressed the awards committee with its productions of Anastasia and Evita, earning five nominations for Outstanding Lead:
- Griffin Bale, Lili Cates, Madelynn Hunt, and Zeina Montifar each received individual recognition.
- Vanessa Salas was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Lead, highlighting the depth of talent in Bridgeland’s theatre department.
Cypress Park High School earned a nomination for Outstanding Orchestra for its spirited performance in Little Shop of Horrors, reflecting the collaboration between student musicians and the stage production team.
Cypress Ranch High School emerged as a standout contender with eight nominations for its production of Sweeney Todd, including:
- Lauren Taylor and Joanna Box for Outstanding Scenic Design
- Garrett Vinas and Maxwell Sullivan for Outstanding Sound Design
- Haley Griffin for Outstanding Lead
- Allison Sievers for Outstanding Singer
- Ethan Torres Rodriguez for Outstanding Honorable Mention
- Tracey McGarity, Seth Bales, and Cheryl Bradford for Outstanding Director
- Additional nominations for Outstanding Musical, Outstanding Orchestra, Outstanding Costume Design, and Outstanding Ensemble
At Cypress Woods High School, sophomore Jonathan Edwards earned a nomination for Outstanding Lead for his portrayal of “Emmett Forrest” in Legally Blonde: The Musical, demonstrating exceptional promise in one of the most competitive categories.
The Legacy and Impact of the Tommy Tune Awards
Named for Houston's own Tommy Tune, a nine-time Tony Award winner and recipient of the National Medal of Arts in 2003 by President George W. Bush, the Tommy Tune Awards have become a cornerstone of the city’s performing arts scene. The awards provide a platform for students to gain recognition and experience akin to the professional theatre world.
Beyond accolades, the ceremony fosters a sense of community among theatre students from diverse schools and backgrounds while encouraging artistic excellence. This annual celebration at the Hobby Center draws audiences from across the Greater Houston area and serves as a powerful reminder of the role the arts play in education.
The Value of Theatre Education for Youth
The benefits of high school theatre extend well beyond the stage. According to the American Alliance for Theatre and Education (AATE), participation in theatre programs improves academic performance, increases self-confidence, and enhances empathy and communication skills. Students involved in theatre are also more likely to score higher on standardized tests and demonstrate strong collaborative and leadership abilities, skills essential for future academic and professional success.
“High-quality arts education can transform students’ lives and help them develop the emotional and social skills they need to thrive,” reports AATE. Research also shows that engagement in performing arts promotes mental wellness, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for cultural expression.
A Celebration of Talent and Dedication
Theatre teachers across CFISD have worked tirelessly to cultivate these achievements, guiding their students through demanding rehearsals, detailed technical production, and emotionally resonant performances. The nominations serve as a testament not only to the talent of CFISD students but also to the dedicated mentors behind the scenes.
As the June 6 ceremony approaches, anticipation is building among students, families, and educators alike. The event is open to the public, offering Houston-area residents a chance to celebrate the achievements of young local performers and experience the magic of musical theatre.
For ticket information and event details, visit the TUTS website at tuts.org/about/tommy-tune-awards.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
