Students from the Boothbay Region YMCA Y-Arts program in Boothbay Harbor won a Freddie G Excellence in Acting award and student Genevieve Taylor received a Freddie G Outstanding Student Director and Choreographer award two weeks ago at the 2016 Junior Theater Festival at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.

The 29 students presented selections from Godspell JR. for Tony-nominated composer Benj Pasek (“A Christmas Story,” “James and the Giant Peach”), Nick Pramik, director of Marketing and Partnerships division at Broadway entertainment advertising agency SpotCo, and Rosemary Newcott, the Sally G. Tomlinson Artistic Director of Theatre for Youth and Families at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta.

“This was a wonderful production by Boothbay Region YMCA Y-Arts. The cast had sensational energy and commitment to both ensemble work and storyline,” said Rosemary Newcott. “Their presentation’s gorgeous opening image/scenario beautifully supported the theme of piece. There was noteworthy student choreography - delivered with purpose by a widely age-diverse cast. They had a strong lead and lovely moments from all.”

Noelle Timberlake and Spencer Pottle were named to the Junior Theater Festival All-Stars, made up of outstanding performers attending the festival. The All-Stars performed a song during the closing ceremony for all 5,000 festival attendees.

The Y-Arts performers: Rachel Barter, Jacob Bishopp, Jordan Chamness, Phoebe Cook, Aaron Densmore, Callan Eason, Mia Eason, Zoe Eason, Taylor Fish, Della Hahn, Emerson Harris, Lilley Harris, Sarah Harris, Ellie Hilscher, Kate Hilscher, Rick Hilscher, Jackie McLoon, Brynna Nelson, Aelia Russell, Alyson Shook, Molly Shook, Trey Tibbetts,  Emma Tolley, Katherine Tolley, Kayleigh Tolley, Sadie Yentsch, Taylor, Timberlake and Pottle.

The Junior Theater Festival was founded in 2003 and became an annual event in 2010.