Recognizing a good habit: St. Pius X High School ‘Nunsense’ musical earns 18 nominations

The Fine Arts department at St. Pius X High School announced that the Tommy Tune Awards program has nominated St. Pius X High School for 18 award recognitions for “Nunsense,” a musical production presented by the Veritas Theatre in November 2023. (Photo courtesy of St. Pius X High School)

HOUSTON — The Tommy Tune Awards program has nominated St. Pius X High School for 18 award recognitions for “Nunsense,” a musical production presented by the Veritas Theatre in November 2023.

Production nominations include outstanding musical, outstanding ensemble and outstanding technical achievement. Individual nominations include outstanding lead for the full cast of five members, outstanding supporting, outstanding singer for two cast members, outstanding dancer, outstanding actor, outstanding director, outstanding music director, outstanding choreographer for two production members, outstanding lighting director for two production members, outstanding sound designer, outstanding scenic designer for two production members, and outstanding stage manager for the full stage production team.

“We have a very talented group of thespians both on and off the stage that mostly led this production, so it’s a student-centered achievement,” said John Magalhaes, director of fine arts at St. Pius X. “They deserve these recognitions not only for their talent but also for their endless dedication, commitment and love for the arts.”

“Nunsense” tells the tale of the Little Sisters of Hoboken and their need to raise funds for burial services because the convent cook, Sister Julia, has accidentally poisoned a group of nuns. The sisters decide to put on a variety show and take over the auditorium of the school — currently set up for “Grease” — to entertain the audience for the fundraiser.

This “habit-forming” musical comedy has won international acclaim for its hilarious script, quirky choreography and vivacious music.

The Tommy Tune Awards program is part of the Theatre Under The Stars musical theatre non-profit organization and celebrates the educational value, artistry and community of high school musical theatre in the Greater Houston area.

Nominations are adjudicated by local volunteers from October to March, and finalists participate in the awards ceremony on Thursday, March 28.