Rock Academy Student Laila Varner Nominated for National High School Musical Theatre Awards® (The Jimmy Awards®)
San Diego, CA — The Rock Academy is proud to announce that rising senior Laila Varner has been nominated for the prestigious National High School Musical Theatre Awards® (NHSMTA®), also known as The Jimmy Awards®, a premier recognition program for outstanding student achievement in musical theatre across the nation.
This honor follows Laila’s remarkable performance as the Fairy Godmother in the Rock Academy’s production of Cinderella, a role which earned her a nomination and Top 20 placement at last year’s San Diego Broadway Awards. Her talent and dedication propelled her to win a coveted spot at the Jimmy Awards, where she performed and trained among the nation’s top young theatre artists.
Laila’s résumé includes standout roles such as Peppermint Pattie in Snoopy during her sophomore year and Tomika in Moonlight Stage Productions’ School of Rock the summer before her junior year. Beyond her commanding stage presence, she is a versatile and passionate performer—an accomplished vocalist, actor, and dancer. She trains regularly, maintains a 4.0 GPA, and is a core member of the Rock Academy’s student worship team, where she leads with humility and a heart devoted to service.
Taylor Fox, Rock Academy’s Director of Theater Arts shares,“We are thrilled to see Laila’s talent and heart recognized on a national stage. Not only does she embody the artistic excellence we nurture at the Rock Academy, but she also lives out the character, integrity, and faith that define our community. She is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose and passion.”
Laila's dedication to her craft has also earned her admission into the San Diego State University Theatre Program, where she will continue pursuing her passion for the performing arts after graduation.
The Jimmy Awards®, established in 2009 by Pittsburgh CLO and Nederlander Alliances, is administered by The Broadway League Foundation Inc. and celebrates the best in high school musical theatre. Each year, more than 150,000 students from 2,300 high schools participate through 55 regional competitions. Nominees selected from these programs travel to New York City for an intensive week of coaching, training, and rehearsals led by Broadway’s top professionals—culminating in a nationally streamed, one-night-only talent showcase.
As Laila takes the stage in New York, she carries not only her own dreams but the admiration and support of her school, community, and fellow students. The Rock Academy is beyond proud of her accomplishments and excited to see what the future holds.
For more information on the Rock Academy, visit https://www.therockacademy.org/
For more information on the The Jimmy Awards® visit https://www.jimmyawards.com/
