Now Recruiting: 2025–26 Adjudicators for the Philadelphia Independence Awards
The Philadelphia Independence Awards, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization celebrating excellence in high school musical theater, is seeking dedicated adjudicators for the 2025–26 high school musical season!
This year, we anticipate upwards of 30 productions across the Greater Philadelphia region. Adjudicators play a vital role in recognizing student achievement by attending performances and submitting thoughtful evaluations.
Role & Responsibilities
- Attend and evaluate 18–22 high school musicals (approximately 60–75% of participating productions) within a 25-mile radius of Philadelphia City Hall.
- Complete an online evaluation form within 72 hours of each performance.
- Participate in a brief digital training module (asynchronous, usually under one hour).
- Abide by all school district COVID-related guidelines.
- Provide your own transportation to productions (assignments are scheduled with proximity in mind, but public transit access varies).
- Nominate student performers to represent Philadelphia in the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, The Jimmy Awards!
Schedule & Commitment
- Most productions take place Thursday through Sunday during March and April.
- Some weekends may require attending multiple performances.
- Adjudicators are often permitted to bring a guest to performances.
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Educators, former and future educators
- Actors, technicians, and production staff
- Musicians and graduate students in theater, music, or arts education
- Past adjudicators wishing to return
Please note: This is a seasonal, part-time opportunity and not a full-time position. We strongly encourage applications from artists of underrepresented communities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.
