The Joci Awards, hosted by The Majestic Empire Foundation, is the nation’s premier talent-based scholarship and education program for high school students in the performing arts. From San Antonio to the Lower Rio Grande Valley, this groundbreaking initiative has become a beacon of opportunity, championing young talent and creating pathways for students to excel in theater and beyond. As a Regional Awards Program for the National High School Musical Theatre Awards in New York City, the Joci Awards elevates local students to the national stage, where they gain invaluable exposure and experience alongside the best young performers in the country.

Since its inception, the Joci Awards has awarded over $1.6 million in scholarships to more than 500 students from diverse backgrounds, opening doors not only to artistic training but to any field of study. With a strong focus on equity, the program breaks down financial barriers, empowering students to pursue their dreams while developing the critical life skills—such as resilience, confidence, and leadership—that are essential for success in any career.

In 2025, the Joci Awards will expand to its biggest stage yet: the iconic Majestic Theatre. This move marks a transformative leap in scale and impact, tripling its reach and featuring 500 hours of free workshops and masterclasses led by top industry professionals. 

The Joci Awards isn’t just about finding the stars of tomorrow—it’s about building a foundation for lifelong success. Through comprehensive training in acting, vocal performance, dance, technical theater, and communications, participants gain far more than performance skills. They develop the confidence to step into leadership roles, the communication skills to collaborate effectively, and the resilience to navigate challenges—all while forming a vibrant network of peers and mentors.

Beyond the Joci Awards competition itself, The Majestic Empire Foundation remains committed to serving students by offering high-quality arts training and educational resources at no cost. By filling the gap left by ongoing cuts to arts education, MEF ensures that every young person—regardless of their background—has access to programs that inspire, uplift, and transform lives.

As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the Joci Awards will celebrate over 500 young performers on the Majestic stage, reinforcing our dedication to creating a legacy of equity, diversity, and community impact that empowers students to thrive and shape the world around them.