The Jamestown High School cast of Les Miserables performs on the stage of Shea’s Performing Arts Center during the Shea’s Wonder Awards on May 17.

Jamestown High School’s musical theatre students earned high praise this past weekend at the Shea’s Performing Arts Center Wonder Awards, where their production of Les Miserables: School Edition was recognized with seven nominations, including the prestigious Outstanding Production of a Musical.

A highlight of the evening was the award for Outstanding Direction, which was presented to JHS director Lauren Scharf in recognition of her thoughtful leadership and commitment to fostering student growth both on and off the stage.

In addition to the production’s overall success, JHS senior Eddie Meyer was named to the event’s exclusive “All-Star Cast,” a distinction awarded to standout performers from across all participating schools.

Several students also earned nominations for Outstanding Leading Performance, including: Hayden Langford as Jean Valjean, Brighton Lumia as Javert, Rya Giuffre as Eponine, Matthew Johnson as Marius, Jolee Schultz as Fantine.

“Participating in the Shea’s Wonder Awards has been a rewarding experience,” said Scharf. “We are earning recognition for the work that the students, parents, community members, and directors at Jamestown High School put into the musical each year. Hearing our name in conversations with schools from Buffalo puts us on the map as a school that produces high-quality and thoughtful musical productions.”

The Shea’s Performing Arts Center Wonder Awards celebrate excellence in high school musical theatre across Western New York and provide students with the opportunity to be recognized on one of the region’s most storied stages.