The Philadelphia Independence Awards
For High School Musical TheaterCelebrating the best in Philadelphia area high school musical theater.
The Independence Awards celebrate excellence in high school musical theater across the Philadelphia region, honoring productions from 37 participating schools. At the culminating Awards Ceremony, over 20 awards will be given out in performing and non-performing categories. The awards show will also feature performances from select productions.
View the 2025 Nominations
This all-volunteer program—led by theater educators and community supporters—uplifts student talent, champions diversity in the arts, and provides essential support to under-resourced school theater programs.
As the official regional affiliate of the Jimmy Awards—the National High School Musical Theatre Awards—the Independence Awards are proud to send one Best Actress and one Best Actor to New York City for a week-long intensive with Broadway professionals. The program connects students to a national network of aspiring performers, culminating in a live showcase at the Minskoff Theatre. Many past Jimmy Awards participants have launched careers on Broadway, and we are thrilled to celebrate the next generation of stars right here on our stages.