Shuler Hensley Awards

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Shuler Hensley Awards?

Fashioned after Broadway's Tony Awards, the Shuler Hensely Awards are part of the National High School Musical Theater Awards, designed to celebrate and recognize excellence in Georgia's high school musical theater programs.

Who is Shuler Hensley?

The Awards are named after Broadway star and Atlanta native, Shuler Hensley.

Who founded the Shuler Hensley Awards?
The Shuler Awards were conceived and developed in 2009 by the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Foundation's ArtsBridge education program. The program is modeled after veteran programs like the Tommy Tune Awards and the Gene Kelly Awards.

Where are the Shuler Hensley Awards?
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta, Georgia

Is this a "competition"?
The program is designed to celebrate high school musical theater. It is not a platform for competition. School productions are evaluated on how well each production is meeting or exceeding its own potential based on available resources. EACH PRODUCTION IS EVALUATED AND SCORED AGAINST ITSELF, rather than against all other school productions, charging schools to create the best possible work in their unique circumstance and environment. The program uses an awards show format but emphasizes celebration, community and camaraderie among all schools.

When is the Awards?  When is the adjudication period?
The Awards are traditionally the second or third week of April. The date is chosen based on the facility's availability. The adjudication period is between September and March.

How are recipients identified?
Productions are evaluated by a panel of adjudicators selected from Georgia's professional arts community. Local school faculty, administrators and parents are not eligible to serve as adjudicators. Schools are evaluated in 15 categories and the results are tabulated by the accounting firm Cherry Bekaert, L.L.P.

Do magnet arts programs or schools with big budgets have an advantage?
Adjudicators evaluate schools based on each individual school's unique resources and challenges. Each production is adjudicated against itself for consideration. Public, private, charter, title 1 and arts magnet schools have all been recognized with nominations or awards.

Is there a participation fee?
No.

How do I get involved in the Shuler Awards program?
Register here.

Can I be an adjudicator?
We are always looking for qualified volunteer judges who are experienced performing arts professionals. Please click here for more information.

How do I support to the Shuler Hensley Awards?
The Shuler Hensley Awards program, production and scholarships are made possible by generous contributions by gracious supporters who believe in the power of arts education. Donations at any level make a big difference. Click here to make your gift today and get additional information on donor benefits.

How can I volunteer or intern?
We welcome volunteers and interns throughout the year, especially during production (February - April). Volunteer and intern assignments include: general office, backstage, merchandise, food and beverage, rehearsals and production. If interested, please email creed@cobbenergycentre.com.