Cooper Students Shine as Tommy Tune Finalists

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The John Cooper School is proud to announce that its Upper School theater production has been named a finalist in multiple categories for the 2026 Tommy Tune Awards, honoring outstanding achievements in high school musical theater across the Greater Houston area. Presented by Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS), the Tommy Tune Awards celebrate excellence in performance, design, and technical theater.

Please join us in congratulating our company on being named finalists in the following categories:

• Outstanding Scenic Design – Joshua Heerssen & Steven Bogard

• Outstanding Lighting Design – Joshua Heerssen

• Outstanding Sound Design – Jay Thomas

• Outstanding Stage Management – Zuri Bryson & Harker Wood

• Outstanding Ensemble

These nominations reflect the talent, creativity, and collaboration of the entire cast, crew, and creative team. From the technical precision behind the scenes to the energy and unity on stage, this recognition highlights the collective effort that brought this production to life.

“These nominations are a testament to the dedication and artistry of our students and faculty,” said Ashley Cooper, Performing Arts Department Chair at The John Cooper School. “To be recognized across both technical and performance categories speaks to the strength of our entire program and the meaningful work happening on and off the stage.”

Winners of the 2026 Tommy Tune Awards will be announced on May 8, when students from across the region gather to celebrate excellence in high school musical theater.

The John Cooper School remains committed to fostering a challenging and supportive environment where students grow as artists, collaborators, and confident performers.

The John Cooper School is an independent, non-sectarian, co-educational, college preparatory day school. The School’s mission is to provide a challenging education in a caring environment to a diverse group of select students, enabling them to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifelong learners.