18 May 2023
TOPEKA (KSNT) – The Topeka Performing Arts Center hosted an awards ceremony for the
recipients of the 2023 Young Artists Awards on Wednesday evening.
This year, 14 students were recognized for their contributions to the enrichment of their schools and their community. Nominations for the Young Artists Awards began during the Fall semester for high school juniors.
Students were nominated in one of nine awards categories:
instrumental music
musical theater
vocal music
dramatic theater
dance
visual arts
technical theater
creative writing
community services in the arts
A panel of industry professional judges reviewed the nominees’ work and chose the best in each category.
The 2023 Young Artists are:
Beatrice Reilly – Washburn Rural High School -$400
Brenna Rutschmann – Topeka West High School – $300
Brooklyn Rupp – Silver Lake High School – $300
Camille Cluke – Topeka West High School – Presidents Recognition Award
Connor Ockree – Corner Stone Family Schools/Mighty Fortress Academy – Presidents Recognition Award
Elizabeth Ginzel – Corner Stone Family Schools – $200
Ethan Hunt – Corner Stone Family Schools – $800
Hannah Allen – Topeka West High School – Presidents Recognition Award
Jack Steinlage – Corner Stone Family Schools – $300
Joann Smith – Shawnee Heights High School – $200
Joel Sinclair – Corner Stone Family Schools – $200
John Larson – Corner Stone Family Schools – Presidents Recognition Award
Tristan Vila – Seaman High School – $300
Zion Phelps-Roper – Topeka West High School – Presidents Recognition Award
This year’s guest speaker for the awards ceremony was Mayor Mike Padilla. Hills Pet Nutrition was the 2023 scholarship sponsor. TPAC is looking to secure a Young Artist sponsor for 2024.