SARASOTA, FL (March 11, 2025) – Sarasota’s Spotlight Kids, a weekly, youth musical theater program, has once again proven its place among the state’s top performing arts groups, bringing home three major awards from this weekend’s prestigious Access Broadway regional competition in Orlando. The young performers, ages 7 to 15, captivated the judges with their high-energy performances, earning the following Diva Division honors:

Best Junior Musical Theatre Production – Freak Flag from Shrek Jr.

Best Director – Cynthia Howe Ashford

Best Junior Musical Theatre School 

Spotlight Theater Productions has a strong history at Access Broadway. For director Cynthia Howe Ashford, this year marked her 24th time directing and bringing her groups to the competition. Under her leadership, Spotlight Kids continues to develop the next generation of musical theatre talent, inspiring young actors to reach new heights. 

“Performing at Access Broadway is a testament to the dedication, passion, and perseverance of these incredible young performers,” said Ashford. “They spent months refining their craft, pouring their hearts into every routine, and their hard work truly paid off. Watching them shine on stage was unforgettable, and I couldn’t be prouder of their talent, teamwork, and boundless energy.”

The winning ensemble featured 22 Sarasota-area students, who dedicated months of rehearsals to perfecting their routines. The talented performers included:

Ainsley McLaughlin, Allie McLaughlin, Annika Powell, Arielle Ramer, Brielle Miller, Caedance Day, Elise Herrold, Ethan Winzeler, Farrah Moreno, Harper Felts, Hannah Paul, Hayley Keigher, Isaac Winzeler, Lincoln Rhodes, Lucia Lozadia, Max Dalmau, Milana Garrison, Molly Whipple, Scarlet Moreno, Shaun Harlen-Vale, Shelby Exline, and Steffi Goldstone.

Spotlight Kids has established itself as one of Sarasota’s top training grounds for young performers. Through the arts, it nurtures confidence and creativity. Many former Spotlight Kids have appeared in TV and film, on Broadway, national tours, and numerous other professional venues.

For more information about Spotlight Kids’ upcoming shows, or how to get involved, visit https://www.spotlightkids.biz/.