Nebraska's Theater Stars Shine in NYC

Two Nebraska theater stars, Carter Pflug and Kolaya Wilmer, are headed to New York for the Jimmy Awards—the high school Tony Awards—after crushing it at the Nebraska Theater Academy Showcase. Carter, fresh off Westside High, stole hearts as Robert Martin in “The Drowsy Chaperone,” while Kolaya, from Fremont High, brought down the house as Eponine in “Les Misérables.” Both battled through grueling auditions—from digital submissions to live callbacks in Omaha—to reach this pinnacle. For Kolaya, 18, it’s a dream realized; Carter described the moment his name was called as electric. They’re not just chasing trophies—they’re soaking up mentorship, networking, and industry connections. Carter’s heading to Pace University, Kolaya’s staying rooted in theater. The Jimmy Awards air Monday—stream live on YouTube. This is more than a competition; it’s proof that Nebraska’s got Broadway-ready talent. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7a5d6333daebc28a