Justin Garza High School in Fresno, California, is celebrating its first nominations for the Rita Moreno Awards, a prestigious regional competition recognizing excellence in high school musical theater. The school received three nominations for its production of 'In the Heights,' a musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Theater teacher and director Ethel Birrell announced the nominations, which include recognition for overall production and individual performances. Junior Issac Mora Zuazo, who portrayed Usnavi de la Vega, expressed his excitement about the nominations, describing the moment as 'electric.' Additionally, students Bellanissa Aldape and Na'ima Jones received nominations for lead actress and supporting performer, respectively. The Rita Moreno Awards program evaluated 42 productions from 30 schools across 18 counties, with the top six productions earning nominations. The awards ceremony will be held on May 18 at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, where nominated casts will perform and individual nominees will audition for the awards.