Maine South High School Theatre is proud to announce that Jane Nuich (12th grade) has been named Best Actress in a Musical by the Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards (IHSMTA) for her portrayal of Eurydice in the musical production, Hadestown: Teen Edition, in April 2026. Selected from hundreds of applicants across Illinois and one of just 12 finalists, Jane’s win marks a defining moment not only for her but for the Maine South Theatre program as a whole.
With this honor, Jane will go on to represent the state of Illinois at the prestigious National High School Musical Theatre Awards (The Jimmy Awards®) in New York City this June. There, she will train and perform alongside the top student performers in the nation, working with Broadway professionals and industry leaders.
“This speaks to the talent and dedication of our students and the culture of the program,” said Teralyn Keith, Fine Arts Department Chair at Maine South. “Jane’s achievement is incredibly special, and we’re thrilled to see her represent Maine South and Illinois on a national stage.”
This latest recognition adds to an extraordinary run of success for Maine South Theatre. In just the past four years (despite one year in which the program did not submit a production for consideration) Maine South has earned statewide nominations for: Best Production, Best Ensemble, Best Director, three Best Actress nominations, and one Best Actor nomination
During that same period, the program has won Best Production, Best Director, Best Actor, and now Best Actress.
“Maine South Theatre’s success is built on a foundation of rigorous training, community, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to producing work that rivals professional standards,” Keith added. “Students are challenged to grow as performers, artists and leaders, contributing to a program that continues to set a benchmark across the state. Jane’s upcoming appearance at the Jimmy Awards further underscores Maine South’s role as a leader in arts education, providing students with opportunities that extend beyond the classroom and onto the national stage.”