Recognized among the region’s best student performers, Dean Pasarelli and Talia Russo received Metro Awards for their outstanding performances in Harrison High School’s Les Misérables.
Harrison High School Production of Les Misérables Recognized with Four Metro Awards
The Harrison High School Spring Musical production of Les Misérables received honors at the Metro Awards this spring. Held in the SUNY Purchase Performing Arts Center on June 15th, the Metro Awards celebrate the best musical theater in the region, with over 70 schools participating across Rockland, Westchester, Putnam, and Bergen counties.
Harrison’s production received thirteen nominations, tied for the most of any school, and earned awards for Outstanding Performance in a Featured Male Role for Dean Pasarelli’s performance as Thénardier, Outstanding Comedic Performance by a Female Performer for Talia Russo’s performance as Madame Thenardier, Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction for LMK Chorus teacher Mr. Scott Test, and the first ever Guild of Technical Theater Students Student Technician Scholarship for Nicholas Pelliccio.
In addition to receiving four Metro Awards, nominations included Overall Production of a Musical, Outstanding Performance by a Chorus, Outstanding Performance of a Production Number, Outstanding Vocal Performance by a Female Performer, Outstanding Performance by a Student Critic, Outstanding Achievement in Lighting Design, Outstanding Achievement in Scenic Design, Outstanding Achievement in Hair and Makeup Design, Outstanding Achievement in Lobby Display.
The production of Les Misérables at Harrison High School was an extraordinary accomplishment. The caliber of the performances was remarkable, and students demonstrated exceptional commitment, skill, and camaraderie both onstage and behind the scenes. The Metro Awards recognition reflects the talent, dedication, and collaborative spirit of the Harrison High School theater community. Performers, musicians, technicians, designers, directors, and faculty mentors, collectively embraced the challenge of bringing one of musical theater’s most demanding productions to life. Their success is a testament to the strength of Harrison’s performing arts program and the commitment, creativity, and excellence that define the Harrison High School community.