Midlakes Theatre Experience advances three to the annual Stars of Tomorrow NYC Bound competition hosted by the Rochester Broadway Theatre League.

Justin Herman Jr. (Class of 2026), Ellie Dorr, (Class of 2027) and Brian Cannan (Class of 2028) were chosen to represent Midlakes in the next round after their portrayals of Sir Harry, Lady Larken and Prince Dauntless in Midlakes Theatre Experiences' production of 'Once Upon A Mattress.'

Herman and Dorr earned awards last year for their roles in 'The Little Mermaid,' taking honors for Achievement in a Leading Role. Herman was chosen to represent Midlakes in the NYC Bound competition last year, as well. Cannan was highlighted earlier this year when he represented Midlakes at the New York State School Music Association Area All-State Festival for Zone 2 at Gates-Chili Central School District. Cannan played French Horn with the Symphonic Band, under the direction of Dr. Jared Chase from Nazareth University.

Over 200 students auditioned for this year's Rochester Broadway Theatre League's NYC Bound competition. Performers are judged individually for their work in lead roles on stage and separately from their school's full production. RBTL announced 40 contenders on Saturday, April 18.

Next, the final 40 stage performers will compete against each other at West Herr Auditorium Theatre on Thursday, May 21, with hopes of earning a spot in the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (or the Jimmy's) in New York City at the end of June.

Midlakes Theatre Experience full ensemble will await their combined results, and will perform part of the 'Once Upon A Mattress' Act 1 Finale on Friday, May 8.

Midlakes, along with more than 40 other high school productions, was judged by a select panel from the RBTL, which provided students and directors with feedback and scores.