Henry Ford II junior honored as among Michigan’s most accomplished young musical theatre performers

Henry Ford II High School junior Eva Wassom has once again earned statewide recognition for musical theatre excellence, being named a finalist at the 2026 Sutton Foster Awards hosted by Michigan State University.

Selected as one of only four female finalists from approximately 150 high school performers across Michigan, Wassom competed for the opportunity to advance to the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, also known as the Jimmy Awards, in New York City.

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This marks Wassom’s second time earning Sutton Foster finalist honors, an achievement that places her among Michigan’s most accomplished young musical theatre performers.

Most recently, Wassom starred as Elle Woods in Henry Ford II High School’s production of Legally Blonde, earning recognition for her vocal ability, stage presence, and commitment to performance.

Her accomplishment carries additional significance for the district, as Eva Wassom is the first and only student in Utica Community Schools history to be named a Sutton Foster Awards finalist — and she has earned that distinction twice.

The Sutton Foster Awards celebrate excellence in high school musical theatre across Michigan and provide students with professional-level performance and adjudication opportunities while recognizing outstanding achievement in musical theatre.

Wassom’s recognition reflects both her individual artistry and the continued strength of performing arts education at Henry Ford II High School and within Utica Community Schools.

Source: Utica Community Schools

Robert S. Monroe, Superintendent of Schools

Http://www.uticak12.org