The curtain closed on a dazzling evening of talent, creativity, and celebration as the 23rd Annual Cappies Awards honored outstanding high school theater students across Broward and Palm Beach counties. Held at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and presented in partnership with South Florida Cappies Inc., this year’s ceremony highlighted the best of student theater from 28 participating schools—public and private alike.
Among the celebrated schools was Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (MSD), whose powerful and imaginative production of Alice By Heart earned well-deserved recognition in multiple categories. MSD students took home four Cappies, including standout wins in choreography, props, and performance.
Senior Ava Fronstin delivered a memorable performance that earned her the award for Dancer in a Male Role, a category that applauds versatility, commitment, and artistic expression. Fronstin, along with fellow student Zoe Schwartzberg, also captured the Choreography award for their innovative and emotionally resonant movement sequences that brought Alice By Heart to life on stage.
Behind the scenes, MSD’s production team shone just as brightly. The Props in a Musical award was presented to Karen Nixon, Rania Ismail, Charlotte Schroeder, and Jules Murphey for their creative contributions. Their thoughtful and detailed prop work helped immerse the audience in the whimsical and dreamlike world of the musical, showcasing how essential backstage roles are in theatrical storytelling.
Adding to the school’s impressive showing, freshman Ellie Pulsifer was named Freshman Critic, highlighting her talent for capturing the essence of live performance through writing. The Cappies program encourages students to engage as critics, attending shows from other schools and writing insightful reviews.
“All of the winners and nominees deserve a standing ovation for their dedication to excellence in the performing arts,” said Jacob Aronin, Director of Education for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. “We must also recognize the commitment of theater educators and the unwavering support of parents and families, and we thank them for sharing their students with us.”
The Cappies program stands out as a peer-driven initiative, where student critics nominate and vote on performances, tech work, and writing from across the region. The awards celebrate all aspects of theater, from leading roles to lighting design, and underscore the immense talent growing in local schools.
“I’m so proud of the volunteers who have made the Cappies program run for 23 years,” added South Florida Cappies Founder and Chair Lori Sessions. “During a time when arts funding is being cut in our schools and communities, I’m grateful we could come together to celebrate the high caliber of theater education in Broward and Palm Beach counties.”
For Marjory Stoneman Douglas, this year’s wins are not only a testament to individual achievement but also a celebration of teamwork, mentorship, and the power of the arts in education. As the spotlight fades until next season, the students of MSD can take a bow for their unforgettable contribution to South Florida’s vibrant theater scene.
For more information about the South Florida Cappies and MSD’s Drama Program, visit Cappies.com/sfc and MSDdrama.com
Photo credit: @douglasdrama on Instagram.
