The Y Arts Competition Team, directed by Emily Mirabile, earned the festival’s top award for Excellence in Acting at this year’s Junior Theater Festival for its adjudicated performance of Elf Jr.

Judge Max Antonio Gonzalez praised the group’s ensemble work, stating, “Everyone entered every scene with a purpose. Such fantastic ensemble work. You didn’t just enter each scene committed, you exited each scene committed, and that made it so great. And the sleigh… slayed!”

A particularly moving moment occurred during adjudication involving cast member Natalie Flagg, who played the mother in Elf Jr. Flagg became ill shortly before the festival and nearly lost her voice. Despite this, she chose to perform with her team. During a duet she had rehearsed with Oscar Mirabile, Flagg spoke portions of her solo while Mirabile sang the ending.

Judge Derek Bowley later addressed the performance, asking if Flagg had been sick and commending her acting. He noted that had he not known the show, he would have assumed the character was meant to speak rather than sing. His support and encouragement brought many in the audience to tears and left a lasting impact on the team. Director Emily Mirabile said she was deeply appreciative of the judge’s attentiveness and compassion, calling the moment life-changing for those present.

The team spent three days at the theater-filled festival, celebrating performances and participating in workshops and panels. One highlight was a panel discussion and live performance by Tony Award–winning actress Beth Leavel, who performed “As We Stumble Along.” Mirabile shared that Leavel spoke about the importance of giving one’s best performance every time, as performers never know who they might inspire or help through a difficult moment.

Additional guest artists at the festival included Jasmine Amy Rogers, Beau Harmon, Katy Geraghty, and others. Students also took part in a popular dance workshop featuring choreography from Chicago on Broadway.

Festival activities extended beyond the stage, with students reconnecting with friends, meeting new performers from around the world, and taking part in traditional festival games and bracelet trading. The team also attended the mainstage showcase, which featured Trolls Jr. and How to Train Your Dragon Jr. The Y Arts group previously performed Madagascar KIDS on the mainstage last year.

Other festival highlights included Scout Martin and Sarah Harris being named Festival All-Stars, Sarah Harris receiving an award for Student Choreography, and several students competing in the Tech Olympics. Emily Mirabile and stunt coordinator Sophia Mansfield also joined other team leaders onstage for a celebratory group dance. Brianne Martin created a spirit stick themed to Elf Jr., which drew attention from other teams.

“Our kids always make me so proud,” Mirabile said. “Many teams are audition-only or come from theater academies. Our kids are kids, and every year they stand among those groups and shine just as bright. The positivity and fun from our Y Arts family made this an unforgettable experience.”

Families interested in joining the next Y Arts Competition Team may contact Emily Mirabile by Feb. 13 for more information. The team is not audition-only, though previous or current Y Arts participation is required.