Known as the Oscars for amateur theatre groups, the awards acknowledge brilliance in theatre companies from across NSW and the ACT.

Orange Theatre Company was nominated for 11 awards for their youth production Seussical the Musical and seven for Chicago.

“This is definitely one of the largest years we’ve had,” president Bruce Buchanan said.

“I think we’re so successful because Orange has an immense talent pool. Many of the schools have strong music and drama programs, we have the Orange Regional Conservatorium and there are the Acting Up workshops at the theatre. There’s tremendous opportunity for people to follow drama.”

Seussical’s nominations include best youth actor in a leading role in a musical for Jack Dodds as Cat in the Hat and best director of a school or youth musical for Emily Carroll and Rebecca Brown. Best actress in a leading role in a musical for Jasmin Hyde as Roxy Hart and best production of a musical are among Chicago’s nominations.

Angela Mason was also nominated for best contribution (on or off stage) by a senior for her roles in Seussical and Chicago.

Kinross Wolaroi School received nine nominations for its preparatory school production Ghost of a Chance and five for The Wedding Singer, its secondary school production.

Writer, director and producer extraordinaire Romko Hordynsky was nominated for multiple awards for his original musical Ghost of a Chance, including best original work for a school or youth production and best set designer for a musical, but said the production was all about the children.

“We have some very talented children at the school who did a great job of singing and dancing. I’m very pleased with the production,” Mr Hordynsky said.

Molong Players also received two nominations for Molong Rouge -  best variety performance by an individual or ensemble for Geri Brown as the Ringmaster, and best production of a variety show .

Award winners will be announced at a ceremony in Canberra on February 21.

alexandra.king@fairfaxmedia.com.au