HHCA is proud to recognize 12 talented student performers who were recently selected as “Top Acts” in the 12th Annual Rising Stars Youth Performing Arts Competition, a distinguished local showcase hosted by the International Society of Cultural Arts (ISCA).

Chosen from dozens of submissions across the Lowcountry, these HHCA students earned the opportunity to compete in this elite event, which celebrates excellence in music, theater, and dance among young artists. Their selection places them among the most accomplished youth performers in the region—a tremendous honor and testament to their dedication and talent.

 Congratulations to these 2025 HHCA Rising Stars:

• James Burger (5th grade) – Musical Theatre/Vocal (Jr. Division - Star to Watch)

• Sienna Reed-Arquez (7th grade) – Vocal/Musical Theatre (Jr. Division - 2nd Place Winner)

• Luke Strebe (10th grade) and Jetts Nelsen (9th grade) – Musical Theatre Duet 

• Hadley Gardner (9th grade) – Guitar/Vocalist (Country)

• Nic Panzerella (12th grade) – Jazz Pianist

• Audrey Atkins (12th grade) – Musical Theatre (Sondheim/Soprano)

• Emma Berry (12th grade) – Jazz Pianist & Vocalist

• Lucy Reese (10th grade) – Contemporary Musical Theater Vocalist

• Josie Feldman (9th grade) – Contemporary Musical Theater

• Stella Burger (9th grade) - Contemporary Dance Solo (Sr. Division - Star to Watch)

• Eli Taylor (10th grade) - Golde-Age Musical Theater Vocalist (Sr. Division - 3rd Place Winner)

• Milla Porcelli (9th grade) – Bilingual Vocal Solo (Sr. Division - 2nd Place Winner)

• Nyla Capers (9th grade) – Acoustic Guitar & Vocalist

• Minor Setbacks Band | Mallory Krimm, Caleb Altizer, Eli Taylor, Sadie Marcotte, Noah Berry (10th grade) - Band and Vocals

These students represented HHCA with excellence at the Rising Stars live showcase, performing across various categories from solo instrumental and vocal acts to dramatic monologues and musical theatre.

Their inclusion in this prestigious event reflects not only their individual artistry but also the strength of HHCA’s Fine Arts program, which continues to nurture creativity and confidence in students from Kindergarten through 12th grade.

About the Competition:

Hosted annually by the International Society of Cultural Arts, the Rising Stars Youth Performing Arts Competition brings together top student performers from across the Lowcountry. The event is known for its professional-level production and high-caliber adjudication, making a selection into the Top 25 a remarkable achievement. Learn more at isca-online.org/rising-stars.