The St. Louis High School Musical Theatre Awards were announced during a virtual ceremony on Sunday and the CBC production of "The Music Man" claimed three major awards.
CBC's production was honored as the "Outstanding Production," while senior Jack Deters was honored as the "Outstanding Actor" for his portrayal of Harold Hill and Ava Berutti, a sophomore at Westminster Christian Academy, was honored as the "Outstanding Actress" for her work as Marian Paroo.
"Winning this award is a tribute to the talent and dedication of our student actors and crew," CBC Theatre director Tom Murray said. "I think it’s a testament to our way of producing fine theatre with The Cerre Players, developing our performers and technicians over their entire career at CBC, choosing shows appropriate for their skills and potential and giving them a solid framework that makes it possible for them to polish their craft and grow as young artists. CBC Theatre has always tried to produce our plays and musicals in a professional manner, with an emphasis on discipline and hard work; setting high standards for our staff and students."
This is CBC Theatre's first honor as "Outstanding Production" in the The High School Musical Theatre Awards' fourth year of recognizing these awards. CBC's 2017 production of “Grease” was also nominated for Best Production. Ed Goetz won the award that year for Best Technical Artistry.
"I am especially proud of senior Jack Deters and Westminster Christian’s sophomore Ava Berutti, who took honors as best actors this year," Murray said. "But accolades are due to the entire cast of 64 and crew of 16.
Murray, who just completed his 41st year directing CBC's theatre performances, wanted to make sure the leaders behind the scenes were also recognized for their work on "The Music Man."
"The production of a musical is a team effort," Murray said. "I would like to thank Charlie Mueller (Music Director), Ed Goetz (Designer and Technical Director), Robin Berger (Choreographer), and Cherol Thibaut (Costumer). This crew of working theatre professionals loves our kids and is devoted to The Cerre Players."
THE MUSIC MAN PHOTO ALBUM