GPS | McCallie Footloose Earns 12 Jewel Awards Nominations
![Footloose characters dance on stage during a performance.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1779123129/gpsedu/qmprmk7sotinpw6wj22w/_L7A5121.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1779123129/gpsedu/qmprmk7sotinpw6wj22w/_L7A5121.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1779123129/gpsedu/qmprmk7sotinpw6wj22w/_L7A5121.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1779123129/gpsedu/qmprmk7sotinpw6wj22w/_L7A5121.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1779123129/gpsedu/qmprmk7sotinpw6wj22w/_L7A5121.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1779123129/gpsedu/qmprmk7sotinpw6wj22w/_L7A5121.jpg","width":2200}])
The joint Girls Preparatory School and McCallie School production of Footloose earned 12 nominations from the Jewel Awards, Chattanooga’s premier high school theater honors hosted by the Tivoli Theatre Foundation that recognize excellence across performance, design, and technical production.
Leading the way, Ellison Lord ’26 received multiple nominations and was named Outstanding Vocalist, earning a category win for his performance. He was also nominated for Outstanding Dramatic Performer and Best Lead Performer, highlighting his range and impact on stage.
Additional student recognitions included Aiyana Steadman ’28 for Outstanding Dancer; Max Knox ’27 and Joseph McGee ’26 for Outstanding Ensemble Performers; and Addie Gallagher ’27 for Outstanding Crew Member. Meri-Madeline Sanders ’27 was nominated for Best Lead Performer and named a finalist in her category.
The production also earned nominations for Best Orchestra, Best Lighting Design, Best Sound Design, and Best Set Design, reflecting the depth of talent both on stage and behind the scenes.
Further recognition came through adjudicator awards, with Ben Dillard receiving the “More Cowbell, Please” award and Ian Johnston honored as a “Wheely” Good Performer. Sye Simmons of McCallie School was recognized with the Spirit of the Jewel Awards.
These honors follow a standout run of Footloose, which filled Frierson Theatre and showcased the power of collaboration between GPS and McCallie. Together, the nominations and awards highlight the strength of the performing arts program and the creativity, dedication, and passion of the students involved.
