DHS Earns Top Honors for CHICAGO: Teen Edition

We cover Decorah because we love it. Show your love back — donate today. DECORAH — Decorah High School's fall 2025 production of "Chicago: Teen Edition" received Outstanding Musical Production and Outstanding Achievement for Ensemble honors from the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards. A group of cast members will perform an excerpt from the show at the 2026 IHSMTA Showcase on Thursday, May 28, at the Des Moines Civic Center. The event will be livestreamed at IowaPBS.org. "Chicago: Teen Edition was an amazing experience for all of us, and we're so proud that our company was recognized for their contributions," said Karen Trewin, producer, co-director and choreographer. "Being selected among the top high school musicals in the state is a tremendous honor for our cast, crew, orchestra and director team." Cast members Mikayla Hiner (Roxie Hart) and June Breitenbach-Dirks (Velma Kelly) were recognized for Outstanding Achievement in a Principal Role. Both were also selected for IHSMTA's "Triple Threat" Award, which recognizes excellence in singing, acting and dancing. They will receive individual coaching on solo pieces, work with a New York City-based choreographer and music director, and collaborate with other students from across the state during the showcase. They will also have the opportunity to audition to represent Iowa at the National High School Musical Theater Awards in New York City. Two additional cast members received Special Recognition in a Principal Role: Noah Potvin as Billy Flynn and Colin Thompson as Amos Hart. "Our students consistently astound us with their dedication to delivering exceptional performances," said Jason Rausch, music director. "We emphasize the power of storytelling, weaving together music, character and technical precision to create memorable experiences for our audiences. Seeing our students' efforts acknowledged is thrilling." "Chicago: Teen Edition" is the fifth production from Decorah High School to be honored by IHSMTA since the school began participating in the adjudicated program in 2017. The program was canceled in 2020. The school produces fall musicals every two years, with a student variety show offered in alternate years. Production staff includes Kristen Underwood, co-director and costume designer; Chris Hadley, technical director; Scott Olinger, set designer; Jensen Korsness, June Breitenbach-Dirks and Mikayla Hiner, choreographers; and Nathan Rhodes, stage manager. Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.