Ridge High School's Matilda Named Best Musical In NJ

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Out of more than 100 schools participating, the Ridge High School Drama club won multiple awards, including outstanding overall production of a musical, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards on Monday night.

"There is no greater gift for a teacher than to see their students achieve and the achievements this year were plenty! The contributions made by all students — on the stage, behind the scenes or playing their instruments exemplified all that is right with education. In addition to performing with excellence, they also displayed a great sense of compassion and caring for one another throughout the last several months, putting it all together to make magic. This was truly a magical year for our students and staff and I could not be prouder of their accomplishments!" said Michael Fackelman, Supervisor of Fine & Practical Arts.

The club was nominated for 16 awards for their musical production of Matilda and received eight awards including:

• Outstanding Overall Production of a Musical
• Outstanding Leading Performer in a Female-Identified Role – Libby Schmitt, Matilda
• Outstanding Supporting Performer in a Female-Identified Role -- Rachel Vanek, Miss Honey
• Outstanding Supporting Performer in a Male-Identified Role – Oscar Grob, Mr. Wormwood
• Outstanding Performance by a Featured Ensemble Member – Gabriel Subervi, Escapologist, Doctor
• Outstanding Performance by a Chorus
• Outstanding Achievement by a Teacher or Outside Director – Martha Harvey
• Student Achievement Award – Jordan Perla, Student Director

"We are so honored and excited that Ridge Drama Club was awarded eight Rising Star Awards from Paper Mill Playhouse. Each and every student that worked on Matilda went above and beyond to make sure that it would be the best production that it could be. Their dedication and commitment to the drama club is inspiring. We have always known that our students are extraordinary and we are so grateful that others have recognized it," said Heather Watson-Kramer, Booster Parent, Co-President.

"Being around the students and staff throughout the production, I could not be more proud of who they are as people and more astounded by how incredible they are as performers. The production was one of the highlights of the year; and being with our students, their parents, our incredible Drama staff, and Mr. Fackelman at the Paper Mill was an experience I will never forget. Seeing our students perform in that venue and then witness them and our staff being honored in such a unique way, it was wonderful to watch them enjoy their hard work and I am grateful to have been here to see it!" said Dr. Russell Lazovick, Ridge High School Principal.

To watch a recording of the award ceremony click here.

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