This year, 116 students from all over the country will make their Broadway debut competing for top honors and scholarships. But ahead of the big show, the nominees spent the past week in New York City, learning from industry professionals, checking out Broadway shows, and creating lifelong bonds with their peers. Eyewitness News was there for it all.
On Tuesday night, the nominees had the chance to eat at the iconic Carmine's with cast members from MJ The Musical. After dinner, it was showtime, and the group made their way to the Neil Simon Theatre to see MJ.
On Thursday, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity - each student had their picture displayed on a billboard in Times Square. We kept hearing words like incredible, unbelievable, and life changing. Because the Jimmys are more than just a competition - they're a launching pad, a chance for young performers to be seen and discovered.
"The history shows it," Jason Laks, president of The Broadway League said. "These kids are going to be on Broadway or on tour. But even if they're not, the training, the skills, the opportunities, you get through performance will carry forward and be some of the best skills you have in life."
There are 22 past winners, finalists, and nominees currently on Broadway in shows like Ragtime, Schmigadoon!, Cats The Jellicle Ball, Chess, and Hamilton.
So to all of this year's nominees, no matter what happens Monday night, enjoy this whole new world.
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