“A year of unforgettable theater” earns New Canaan High students top statewide recognition
In a standing ovation-worthy achievement, the New Canaan High School Theater Department has received 13 nominations in the prestigious 2025 Halo Awards, hosted by Seven Angels Theatre. The nominations—spanning both Les Misérables and Jack the Ripper: Monster of Whitechapel—recognize student excellence in acting, design, and ensemble performance.
The annual awards, often dubbed the “Tonys for Connecticut high schools,” celebrate achievements in high school theater across the state. This year’s accolades not only underscore the individual talent of NCHS students but also affirm the program’s commitment to high-caliber, ambitious productions.
“Our students and staff poured their hearts into these shows,” said Theater Director Lorah Haskins. “To see their work recognized on this level is incredibly meaningful. These nominations are a tribute to their talent and tireless effort.”
Les Misérables was a standout in the musical categories, garnering eight nominations, including Best Classical Musical, Best Chorus, and Best Scenic Design and/or Execution, the latter honoring Henry Tate, Bennett Gropper, and Andrew Meli.
Individual recognition includes:
Henry Tate for Best Leading Male Role in a Classical Musical as Jean Valjean,
Serena Peterson for Best Leading Female Role in a Classical Musical as Cosette,
Thomas Pisant for Best Featured Male Role in a Musical as Marius,
Isa Temple for Best Featured Female Role in a Musical as Éponine,
Nicholas Mohamad for Best Supporting Male Role in a Musical as Javert,
Andrew Meli and Radea Raleva for Best Performance by a Couple or Dynamic Duo as Thénardier and Madame Thénardier.
Meanwhile, Jack the Ripper: Monster of Whitechapel earned five nominations, including Best Classical Play. Jack Dooley’s double nomination—for Best Comic Male Role and Best Standout Performance in an Ensemble Production—acknowledges his memorable portrayal of Sir Charles Warren.
Design nods continue with Radea Raleva’s Best Costume Design and/or Execution nomination, and the trio of Tate, Gropper, and Meli also being honored again for scenic execution in Jack the Ripper.
“Being part of these productions has been a transformative experience,” said Henry Tate. “We pushed ourselves, and to be recognized for it just feels amazing.”
The awards will be presented at the Palace Theater in Waterbury from May 27–30, with nominees from across Connecticut gathering to celebrate student theater.
As the stage lights dim on this school year, New Canaan’s theater department can take a well-earned bow, knowing that their dedication has not only brought stories to life—but raised the curtain on a bright future for young performers and artists.
