Hays Post
The Hays High performance of "Hadestown" was honored for overall performance at the 2025 Jester Awards on Sunday in Wichita.
Thomas More Prep-Marian and other Hays High School students and contributors were honored with Jester Award nominations.
"For over two decades, the Jester Awards, presented by Music Theatre Wichita, have celebrated excellence in Kansas high school musical theatre. Dedicated judges recognize the hard work and creativity of students and faculty statewide, from Wichita to Garden City and beyond," the Jester Awards program said on its website.
"This program, honoring casts, crews, directors and designers, is made possible by the legacy of Belden and Anna Mills, through the Lois K. Walls Jester Fund at MTWichita and the Naftzger Fund for Fine Arts."
“The level of talent present in our high schools around Kansas is spectacular,” said Paul Witte, MTWichita’s board president. “I see at least 25 Broadway and professional shows a year, in addition to Jester school shows. I’m always blown away by the dedication of our students and teachers in producing student shows we can admire.”
Other Hays High nominees for "Hadestown" included:
Jordan Aschenbrenner (Eurydice) — leading performer
Johanna Jones (Persephone), supporting performer
The Fate Sisters, small ensemble
Mary Vilaysing, costume design
Adrian Rifat (Scenic Design), design guest
Hays High School "Hadestown: Teen Edition," lobby display
TMP
Thomas More Prep-Marian nominees included:
Grant Weber (Zacky Pryce) "Big Fish," cameo performance
Preston Mermis, "Big Fish," sound design