News Summary
Two local theatre students, Jazhel Arostegui and RC Moore, proudly represented Chattanooga at the national Jimmy Awards competition. Following their wins at the Jewel Awards, they performed in New York City at the Minskoff Theatre, showcasing their talent alongside 108 nominees. Their journey included workshops with Broadway professionals and attending notable performances, enhancing their artistic development. The Tivoli Theatre Foundation sponsored their participation, celebrating the importance of supporting local theatre talent and fostering creativity in the performing arts community.
Chattanooga – Two talented local theatre students, Jazhel Arostegui and RC Moore, made a remarkable debut on Broadway, representing Chattanooga at the prestigious national Jimmy Awards competition. Both have recently earned accolades by winning the Jewel Awards, presented by the Tivoli Theatre Foundation, which led them to this unique opportunity in New York City.
The Jimmy Awards, taking place at the famous Minskoff Theatre, home to Disney’s “The Lion King,” showcased the talents of 108 nominees from across the nation. After a rigorous 10-day program at The Juilliard School that included auditions, rehearsals, and workshops with established Broadway professionals, Arostegui and Moore had the chance to perform three musical numbers. Their performances featured music from the upcoming 2024-2025 Broadway season, alongside a highlight from the iconic production “Sunset Boulevard.”
During their time in New York City, the students embraced numerous experiences that enhanced their artistic journey. They attended a performance of “MJ The Musical,” explored the New York City Public Library of Performing Arts, and took a tour of the Museum of Broadway. They also enjoyed culinary delights from popular eateries like Schmackary’s, famous for its cookies, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, and the renowned Magnolia Bakery.
The significance of their accomplishments was celebrated by Nick Wilkinson, CEO of the Tivoli Theatre Foundation, who expressed pride in Arostegui and Moore’s achievements and highlighted the honor of performing alongside esteemed Broadway productions. Arostegui received the award for Best Actor representing Christian Heritage School, while Moore was recognized as Best Actress from Chattanooga Christian School.
The travel expenses and participation in the Jimmy Awards were fully funded by the Tivoli Theatre Foundation, which plays a vital role in supporting Chattanooga’s high school theatre scene through the Jewel Awards. This initiative aims to foster the talents and ambitions of local students, encouraging their creative pursuits in the performing arts.
The Jewel Awards, an annual event, serves as a platform to celebrate and recognize the outstanding theatrical achievements of area schools. The next ceremony is scheduled for May 10, 2025, at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium, where local students are expected to showcase their work and continue raising the profile of high school theatre in Chattanooga.
This triumph on Broadway illustrates the dedication and talent of young artists in Chattanooga, inspiring more students to pursue their passion for the performing arts. Arostegui and Moore’s journey exemplifies the potential for local talent to shine on national stages, reminding the community of the important role that arts education and support can play in developing future stars.
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Additional Resources
- Playbill: Meet Your 2025 Jimmy Awards Nominees
- Chattanooga Pulse: Local Jewel Awards Winners Perform on Broadway
- Broadway News: Students from 55 Regional Award Programs Participate in Jimmy Awards
- Broadway World: 55 Participating Regional Awards Programs Announced for the 16th Annual Jimmy Awards
- Chattanoogan: New Jewel Awards Recognizes Local Talent
- Wikipedia: Jimmy Awards
- Google Search: Broadway Awards
- Google Scholar: Theater Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Broadway
- Google News: Local Theater Awards
