PCTI has been recognized with multiple honors from the Paper Mill Playhouse 2026 Rising Star Awards, one of New Jersey’s most respected programs celebrating excellence in high school musical theater. Hosted by Paper Mill Playhouse the Rising Star Awards spotlight outstanding achievement in student musical theater programs across the state.
PCTI’s spring production of Mean Girls received nominations in several major categories, including:
- Outstanding Achievement in Choreography
- Outstanding Achievement in Direction, Outstanding Performance by a Student Orchestra,
- Outstanding Performance in a Featured Role for Mikaella Sapena as Mrs. George
- Outstanding Performance in a Male-Identified Supporting Role for Darien Stoll as Damian Hubbard.
The production also earned honorable mentions for:
- Outstanding Hair and Make-Up Design
- Outstanding Achievement in Lighting Design
- Outstanding Overall Production of a Musical.
The recognitions reflect the talent, dedication, and collaboration of the entire cast and crew, including student performers, musicians, designers, technicians, and creative teams who worked together to bring the production to life during PCTI’s March 2026 performances.
The Rising Star Awards celebrate excellence in musical theater education across New Jersey, recognizing outstanding high school productions and student performers throughout the state. PCTI’s recognition reflects the talent, dedication, and passion students bring to the stage both on and off the spotlight.