Learn How Your School Can Dazzle
We are thrilled with your interest in the Dazzle Awards program!
Playhouse Square can serve a limited number of high schools in the program; therefore, participation is granted on a first come, first served basis. School applications are processed in the order they are received. All 2024-25 returning schools in good standing are guaranteed a spot in the 2025-26 Dazzle Awards program. The returning school application window is September 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. – September 14, 2025. The new school application window is September 15, 2025, at 10 a.m. – September 21, 2025. Applications received from new or lapsed schools are considered on a case-by-case basis.
The application form and subsequent materials must be submitted by the school’s primary or secondary contact. Any materials submitted by students or parents will not be processed. The application form must be completed in one sitting, so please be prepared with answers to all the questions to ensure a timely submission. Please Note: We cannot process your school’s application until the form is completed and submitted.
Participation Requirements:
In response to the rapid growth of the Dazzle Awards program and the increasing number of schools eager to participate, we’ve taken time to thoughtfully review the participation requirements and define what it means for a participating school to be “in good standing.” To support our mission, ensure transparency and make participation as seamless as possible, we have clearly outlined the Participation Requirements below and are introducing a new set of Good Standing Guidelines that uphold the integrity of the program and promote a positive experience for all involved. As interest continues to grow, adherence to these guidelines is required for schools wishing to remain active participants in the Dazzle Awards program.
2025-26 Application Criteria:
To apply for participation in the Dazzle Awards program, schools must:
- Be a four-year accredited high school located in one of the following counties:
- Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage or Summit.
- Produce a full-length musical listed on the NHSMTA Qualifying Shows & Roles list.
- Produce their musical within the adjudication window of October 31, 2025-April 19, 2026.
- Cast the production with a minimum of 80% current high school students (grades 9–12).
- Provide their Insurance Policy showing Playhouse Square Foundation as an Additional Insured through June 30, 2026, upon acceptance into the program.
- Pay the following expenses following acceptance into the program:
- A $200 participation fee.
- A minimum purchase of 30 tickets ($20 each) for the Dazzle Awards Ceremony.
Good Standing Guidelines:
To uphold the integrity of the program and promote a positive experience for all involved, all participating schools must adhere to the following:
Timely Communication
- Designate a primary and a secondary school contact to be included in all program correspondence.
- Respond promptly to all program-related emails and requests requiring a response.
- Submit required forms, materials, and documentation by stated deadlines.
Eligibility Confirmation
- Produce a qualifying musical within the designated adjudication window.
- Ensure and communicate the production’s eligibility for each category accurately and completely, in good faith, by the stated deadlines.
Adherence to Program Guidelines
- Follow all adjudication and evaluation procedures as outlined by the program.
- Respect the integrity of the adjudication process and maintain confidentiality where required.
- Student Engagement
- Encourage student participation in workshops, classes, and enrichment opportunities offered by the program.
Professional Conduct
- Maintain a respectful and inclusive environment for students, staff, adjudicators, and program representatives.
Adhere to the Anti-Harassment Policy
- Proactively address any concerns or questions in a constructive and timely manner, and through the appropriate channels.
Financial Commitment
- Submit the required participation fee and ticketing expenses by the stated deadline.
- Communicate proactively about financial challenges or delays.
Attendance and Participation
- The primary and/or secondary school contacts must attend the annual in-person Orientation Meeting at Playhouse Square (see “Important Dates & Links”).
- The primary and/or secondary school contacts must attend the virtual Townhalls (see “Important Dates & Links”).
- All participating schools are expected to be actively involved in the Dazzle Awards Ceremony, including attendance at all scheduled rehearsals and technical run-throughs, when applicable.
- Each school must be visibly represented in the theater during the Dazzle Awards Ceremony. Schools are encouraged to make every effort to fill their designated seating area and demonstrate enthusiastic support for their students and fellow participating schools.
- School Representation in Opening/Closing Numbers:
- Each participating school is required to designate two student representatives to perform in the opening and closing numbers of the Dazzle Awards Ceremony. This requirement applies regardless of nomination status.
- Students must attend all rehearsals and technical run-throughs as scheduled. No excused absences will be permitted.
- Individual Nominee Participation:
- All nominees in the categories of Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Supporting Actress are required to perform in the opening and closing numbers of the Dazzle Awards Ceremony. This requirement applies for award consideration.
- All nominees in the categories of Best Actor and Best Actress are also required to perform in a medley at the Dazzle Awards Ceremony. This requirement applies for award consideration.
- Nominees must attend all rehearsals and technical run-throughs as scheduled. No excused absences will be permitted.
- Best Musical Performance Requirement:
- Schools nominated for Best Musical (Tiers I & II) are required to perform one production number from their nominated show during the Dazzle Awards Ceremony.
- Cast members must attend all rehearsals and technical run-throughs as scheduled. No excused absences will be permitted.
- Program Promotion
- Include the full-page Dazzle Awards Ad in your school’s production playbill.
- Share program materials and updates with students and families to maximize participation.