Local High School Students Selected for Prestigious Statewide Sutton Foster Competition

Two students from the Portland High School theater program have been selected to participate in the statewide Sutton Foster Awards competition, recognizing outstanding achievement in high school musical theater across Michigan.

Liam Beckett, who played the role of Marius, and Josephine Polasek, who played the role of Eponine, earned the honor following their performances in this year’s production of Les Miserables: School Edition. The students will join top high school performers from across the state for an intensive rehearsal experience and live showcase celebrating excellence in musical theater performance.

Named in honor of acclaimed Broadway performer Sutton Foster, the competition highlights student talent in acting, singing, and dance while providing educational and performance opportunities for emerging artists.

“We are incredibly proud of these kids and their hard work.”  said Chandra Polasek, director of the PHS theater program. “They are not only incredibly hardworking and talented students, but also excellent leaders within our program.  I’m excited to see them share their art with their peers from across the state.”

The Sutton Foster Awards program serves as Michigan’s official regional awards program connected to the Jimmy Awards, also known as the National High School Musical Theatre Awards. Sutton Foster participants have the opportunity to work with theater professionals, receive specialized training, and perform alongside fellow student artists from throughout the state, with two students from the state-wide showcase being selected to advance to the National Jimmy Awards competition in June.  

The statewide Sutton Foster Awards showcase will take place on May 31st, at The Wharton Center.  Tickets are available to the public at: https://www.whartoncenter.com/events/detail/sutton-foster-awards-showcase

Photos by Renae Goodman