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LAGUNA BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
CONTACT: ANAKAREN UREÑO
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT
949-497-7700 EXT. 5232

May 23, 2025

Laguna Beach High theatre students recognized at 2025 Cappies Gala for “9 to 5: The Musical”

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. – Laguna Beach High School (LBHS) theatre students earned three top awards at the 2025 Orange County Cappies Gala, standing out among 22 schools for excellence in stage management, vocal performance, and marketing.

The annual event, held May 18 at the National City Grove of Anaheim, celebrates outstanding high school theatre across the region. The Cappies is a student-led program where trained high school critics attend shows at other schools, write reviews, and vote on award winners at the end of the year. LBHS students were nominated in eight categories for their production of “9 to 5: The Musical” and earned three awards recognizing them as best in their categories:

• Stage Management in a Musical: Rita Capano and Anna Sandquist
• Female Vocalist: Lauren Norrix, for her role as Judy Bernly
• Marketing for a Musical: Sam Doshi O'Neill, Mallory Keller, Maris Morgan, and Lauren Norrix

"It is a privilege to have our theatre program recognized at this level, and is a true testament not only to the talent of the nominees and winners from LBHS, but to the overall time, talent, energy, and heart all members of LBHS theatre put into the program," said LBHS Theatre Director Meghan Minguez-Marshall.

The Orange County Cappies program is part of Cappies, Inc., a national nonprofit headquartered in Washington, D.C., dedicated to recognizing and elevating student contributions to theater and journalism. 

"We are incredibly proud of our LBHS students who have been recognized by The Cappies. Their talent, dedication, and creative spirit represent the very best of what student-led arts education can achieve," said LBHS Principal Jason Allemann, Ed.D. "The Cappies program empowers young voices in theatre, journalism, and playwriting, and it’s inspiring to see our students not only participate but excel on this national stage. Their achievements are a testament to the work our staff and students put into their craft," he concluded.

The awards are overseen by a volunteer committee of theatre educators who coordinate critic training and organize the end-of-year gala and nominee reception.

In addition to the Cappies recognition, LBHS earned two Best Actress nominations at the 2025 MACY Awards for “9 to 5: The Musical.” Maris Morgan was nominated for her role as Doralee Rhodes, and Lauren Norrix was recognized for her performance as Judy Bernly. The Best Actress nomination is a qualifying step toward the national Jimmy Awards. LBHS was also one of 10 schools selected to perform a scene from its production during the MACY Awards ceremony on June 1.

The visual and performing arts programs at LBHS allow students to explore their creative talents in theatre, music, and visual arts. These programs focus on collaboration, critical thinking, and self-expression while preparing students for success in the arts and other fields. Students participate in performances, exhibitions, and activities that enhance their education and connect them with the local arts community. Follow @lbusdtheatre on Instagram for updates on upcoming performance dates and behind-the-scenes content.

To learn more about Laguna Beach Unified School District and stay updated on district news, visit www.lbusd.org, follow @LagunaBeachUSD on Instagram, and subscribe to the district newsletter. 

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