Brighton High School senior Casey Howe and the cast and crew of “Mamma Mia” received numerous accolades as part of the Rochester Broadway Theater League’s Stars of Tomorrow program in May.

The show received the following recognitions: Recognition as one of the Top 10 Large Schools; Excellence in Overall Production; Excellence in Acting Ensemble; Excellence in Vocal Ensemble; Excellence in Dance Ensemble; and Excellence in Production Design.

Several individual students received Outstanding recognition for their performances in the musical: Casey Howe, Taylor Howe, Henry Ager, Sophie Miller, and Samuela Botwey.

The cast performed a 2-and-a-half-minute medley from the musical before a sold-out house at the annual Gala, a showcase of Rochester-area musical theater productions. Also at the Gala, junior Molly McIntyre was featured as part of a medley featuring students from all participating schools.

“This year’s production of Mamma Mia was special, and a true testament to the talent, commitment, creativity, and personality of these amazing students,” Artistic Director Glenn McCarty said. “It was a true joy to work with such humble, passionate young people. They are the best of Brighton, and we should all celebrate these recognitions.”  

Senior Casey Howe competed in the NYC-Bound program, which sends two Rochester-area students to the National High School Musical Awards, also known as the Jimmy Awards. From an initial pool of over 300 performers, Casey was one of 10 finalists for the award. She performed three songs in front of a crowd at the West Herr Auditorium theater and before a panel of judges: Broadway veteran Eden Espinosa, vocalist and dancer Kamilah Marshall, and SUNY Geneseo Musical Director Don Kot.

“I am so proud of Casey,” McCarty said. “She has been a dynamic part of BHS theater since she arrived on campus as a freshman and has delivered so many memorable performances over the years. When she takes the stage, she shines bright, and it was a delight to see the greater Rochester arts community acknowledge her in this way. While Casey was not ultimately selected to represent Rochester at the Jimmys, she gave everyone in attendance at the competition three performances to remember with her poise, talent, and courage. It was a beautiful moment.”