A Port Washington high school junior is stepping into the spotlight this spring, not as a performer, but as a storyteller on one of the region’s biggest stages for student theater.
Jaffe was chosen by Nicole Rosky, editor-in-chief of BroadwayWorld, from a competitive pool of student journalists interested in careers in arts and entertainment. The awards ceremony is scheduled for May 17 at Symphony Space on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
As part of the role, Jaffe will cover the event for BroadwayWorld, the official media partner of the awards, interviewing nominees and documenting the competition. He will also co-host the awards’ online pre-show alongside veteran theater reporter Richard Ridge.
In addition, Jaffe will report from the red carpet on opening night of Schmigadoon! on Broadway, gaining firsthand experience in theater journalism.
The Roger Rees Awards, presented in partnership with the Broadway Education Alliance, recognize excellence in high school musical theater and emphasize the importance of arts education. Now in its 16th year, the program features 50 student performers nominated from 104 participating schools throughout the region.
Rosky said Jaffe stood out among applicants for his perspective and enthusiasm.
“Gabriel brought such a strong point of view and genuine love for theatre to his work, and we’re so excited to celebrate him as this year’s Student Reporter winner,” Rosky said in a statement. “At BroadwayWorld, we’re thrilled to help foster the passion and perspective of the next generation.”
Jaffe’s selection also places him in contention on a national level. He will represent the Greater New York region in The Broadway League Foundation’s Student Reporter Search, where he will compete for the opportunity to serve as an official behind-the-scenes reporter at The Jimmy Awards in June.
The Roger Rees Awards ceremony will be hosted by Andrew Keenan-Bolger, a Broadway actor, writer and director best known for originating the role of Crutchie in Newsies.
For Jaffe, the opportunity marks a significant step toward a potential career in theater and entertainment journalism, offering access to industry professionals and major productions while still in high school.
The event is open to the public, with tickets available through Symphony Space.
