New Jersey has long been a vibrant hub for arts and culture, and nowhere is that more evident than in the thriving world of high school musical theatre. On Monday, May 19, 2025, the spotlight shone brightly at the Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center, as the venue hosted the much-anticipated 3rd Annual Central Jersey Marquee Awards.
This prestigious event honored the best and brightest young talents from across Middlesex, Somerset, and Mercer Counties, showcasing the depth of passion, creativity, and dedication found in our local high school productions.
🎭 Want to discover more amazing theatre in the Garden State? Visit Explore New Jersey Theatre for upcoming shows and community events.
🌟 What Are the Central Jersey Marquee Awards?
The Central Jersey Marquee Awards are more than just a night of trophies and applause—they’re a celebration of the performing arts and a launchpad for the next generation of theatre-makers. These awards recognize outstanding achievements in high school musical theatre, honoring students, directors, choreographers, and entire ensembles for their talent and hard work throughout the school year.
From breathtaking performances to awe-inspiring set design, these awards highlight every aspect that goes into creating unforgettable high school musicals.
🏆 2025 Marquee Awards: A Night to Remember
This year’s awards ceremony brought together passionate theatre fans, proud parents, educators, and, of course, the student performers themselves. The red carpet buzzed with excitement as schools from across Central Jersey came together to celebrate a shared love of the stage.
Nominees and winners were recognized in categories such as:
- Best Musical
- Best Actor & Best Actress in a Leading Role
- Best Supporting Performances
- Best Student Orchestra
- Outstanding Set, Lighting, and Costume Design
- Best Ensemble
- Rising Star Award for Emerging Talent
Each performance and nomination was a testament to the dedication of teachers, directors, and students who work tirelessly to bring their productions to life—often on limited budgets and tight rehearsal schedules. But the passion? Unlimited.
🎤 Why the Marquee Awards Matter
In a world where arts education often battles for funding, events like the Central Jersey Marquee Awards underscore just how essential theatre is to our schools and communities. They inspire confidence, collaboration, and creativity in students while giving families and educators a chance to celebrate their achievements on a grand stage.
The Marquee Awards also connect young performers with opportunities beyond high school. Winners in key categories often receive scholarships, mentorship, or invitations to perform at regional or even national events.
These aren’t just awards—they’re dreams in motion.
🎟️ The Venue: Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center
The choice of Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center as the host venue elevated the evening even further. With its state-of-the-art acoustics and stunning design, the theater provided a fitting backdrop for a night dedicated to excellence in performance. The venue continues to cement its reputation as a cultural cornerstone in Central Jersey, supporting not just professional acts but also the next generation of performers.
🌆 Supporting the Arts in Central Jersey
The Marquee Awards are a powerful reminder of the talent thriving in New Jersey’s high school theatre programs. Whether you’re a longtime theatre lover or new to the stage scene, it’s a great time to get involved—by supporting a local show, mentoring young artists, or simply spreading the word about the amazing work happening in our schools.
🎭 Stay connected with the arts in your area! Discover upcoming productions, school shows, and theatre news at Explore New Jersey Theatre.
👏 Congratulations to the 2025 Central Jersey Marquee Award Winners!
To every student who stepped into the spotlight this year, whether on stage or behind the scenes—you are what makes New Jersey’s arts community shine. The energy, emotion, and effort you bring to your craft enrich your schools and your communities.
As we look forward to another incredible season of performances in 2026, let’s continue to uplift and support the incredible talent growing right here in the Garden State.
🌟 Explore New Jersey. Support the arts. And don’t miss the show.
