Every year, high school drama departments throughout the state of Minnesota can apply for the Spotlight Education Program Awards, which are awards given to shows or individuals who show remarkable talent in theater. This year, junior Carson Knoer has made it into the top ten for the Triple Threat Award, which is an individual award for excellence in singing, dancing, and acting.

Among all applicants for this award, the top 30 were selected to participate in a formal audition process. Then, the top 10 for both Showcase nights were selected to compete for an all expense paid trip to New York to meet with professionals, see Broadway shows, and experience many other unique opportunities. The award will be given to one male and female from both Showcase nights.

BSM has had several students make it into the finals for this award, with Luke Guidinger finishing in the top 10 last year, and Lexi Johnson and Danny Faber finishing in the top 12 the year prior. “This year they slightly changed the award, because in order to be eligible for the award, the cast as a whole had to have an outstanding performance that was recognized by this award as well, but now it’s just based on the individual,” music director Nancy Stockhaus said.

On the night of the Spotlight Showcase, Knoer will perform with his respective top 10 and the winners of the award will be announced. “[For BSM], this will take place on June 12, and we’re really excited for Carson to perform,” Stockhaus said.

Knoer has worked extremely hard for this award and is thankful to be acknowledged for it. “I’m really honored to be in the top 10 in the state and I’m excited to perform in the Showcase,” Knoer said.