Students from Magic Curtain Productions delivering an energetic performance at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta.
Students from Magic Curtain Productions showcased their remarkable talent at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta, earning the Excellence in Ensemble Award. Standout performers Emily Bankowitz and Madeline Abbott were recognized as Junior Theater Festival All-Stars. The group captivated judges with their performance of ’13 the Musical JR.’ The festival not only highlighted their skills but also celebrated community theater’s role in fostering young talent. With an impressive history and commitment to the arts, Magic Curtain Productions continues to make Orlando proud on the national stage.
Orlando is buzzing with excitement after a group of talented local students representing Magic Curtain Productions (MCP) made big waves at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta (JTF Atlanta). The festival took place from January 17-19, 2025, at the Cobb Convention Center in Atlanta, and it was a weekend packed with talent, creativity, and unforgettable performances.
One of the biggest highlights from the festival was MCP earning the coveted Excellence in Ensemble Award. This recognition showcases the hard work and dedication the students put into their performances, and it’s not just an accolade to hang on the wall—it’s a testament to the amazing talent that Orlando has to offer!
Among the standout students were Emily Bankowitz and Madeline Abbott, who were named Junior Theater Festival All-Stars. These young performers have shown their commitment and passion for musical theater, elevating their craft to a level that truly stands out at a festival packed with competition.
During the festival, each group had the chance to showcase their skills by performing a 15-minute piece from a Broadway Junior® musical. Magic Curtain Productions opted for the lively “13 the Musical JR.”, and the judges were truly impressed. They included Jacob Brent, a Broadway Professor of Musical Theatre at Elon University, and theatre educator Holly Stanfield, who both recognized the high caliber of talent on display. Brent was particularly struck by the powerful vocal performances and pointed out the students’ rigorous coaching and technique training.
Magic Curtain Productions has carved out a name for itself as a premier community theater in East Orlando. They are not just about putting on shows; they actively engage with the community through performances for after-school programs and assisted living facilities. It’s this kind of commitment that fosters a love for the arts and enriches the local area.
Magic Curtain Productions boasts an impressive history at Junior Theater Festivals. Over the years, they have garnered multiple awards, from Excellence in Dance to Excellence in Acting and Music. Their students have received individual accolades, including the prestigious Freddie G Outstanding Performance by an Individual awards. And let’s not forget MCP Director Rhonda Cato, who was selected for a special fellowship providing opportunities to work with Broadway professionals.
The Junior Theater Festival is not just any run-of-the-mill event; it attracts performances from groups across 30 states and several countries, marking a true celebration of student-driven musical theater on a global scale. This year’s festival included 136 participating groups, along with mainstage appearances by renowned Broadway guests and top-notch educators serving as judges.
This wonderful festival is presented by iTheatrics and the Junior Theater Group, whose mission is to enhance opportunities for young performers. Historical attendees have gone on to become stars on Broadway and in various theatrical endeavors, shining brightly just like the talented students from Orlando.
As the curtain comes down on another successful Junior Theater Festival, we can’t help but feel a sense of pride for our Orlando students. Their achievements remind us that the magic of theater continues to thrive, bringing joy and artistry into the lives of all who participate. Here’s to many more years of performance excellence from the remarkable talents at Magic Curtain Productions!
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