The Cappies

The Cappies, founded in 1999, is a nonprofit organization headquartered in McLean, Virginia. Employing 19 individuals, the organization generates approximately $57 million in annual revenue. The Cappies operates an international program recognizing, celebrating, and providing learning experiences for high school theater and journalism students, as well as teenage playwrights. Through thirteen programs spanning the United States and Canada, participating high schools select critic teams composed of three to nine students. These student critics undergo comprehensive training in theater criticism and review writing, attending plays and musicals at other high schools within their regions. Following extensive training, they produce reviews, approximately 400 words in length, adhering to strict deadlines. Volunteer teacher-mentors oversee discussions and select the highest-quality critic-written reviews for publication in local newspapers, proudly featuring student bylines. Interested parties can visit The Cappies' website at cappies.org for further information.