Cappies Gala Celebrates Excellence in High School Theatre

The spotlight shone brightly on Ottawa's high school theatre scene at the recent Cappies Gala, held at the National Arts Centre. This highly anticipated evening was the culmination of a year of incredible dedication, with multiple OCDSB schools earning well-deserved recognition.

The Cappies, or "Critics and Awards Program," is an international initiative that offers a unique learning experience for high school students. Through the program, students are trained as critics, attending and reviewing high school plays and musicals at other schools in their area. These student-written reviews are published in the Ottawa Citizen, providing valuable real-world experience. At the end of each season, these student critics vote to recognize their peers at a gala that celebrates the hard work and talent of secondary theatre programs.

Colonel By Secondary School's theatre program had a remarkable showing at this year's Cappies, taking home eight awards across various categories, including Lead Actor in a Musical, Comic Actors in a Musical, Dancers, Favourite Choreography and Favourite Ensemble in a Musical. Their production of Legally Blonde was particularly recognized, earning the coveted Critic's Favourite Musical award!

In their first year participating in the Cappies, the West Carleton Secondary School drama club made an impressive debut. Their performance of The Odyssey earned them an incredible seven nominations, and was ultimately named Critic’s Favourite Play! They also took home three awards for Featured and Supporting Actors in a Play.

Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School showcased strong individual talents this year, with students earning recognition for their diverse skills. In addition to a Junior Critic award, their production of Carrie the Musical saw students honored as Vocalist and Featured Actor in a Musical.

Meanwhile, A.Y. Jackson Secondary School was recognized with awards for Favourite Creativity and Favourite Ensemble in a Play. Their students demonstrated remarkable collaborative spirit and imagination in their production of Bound by Pomegranate: A Persephone Retelling.

Congratulations to all of the talented students recognized this year!

Cappies Gala