“Broadway or Bust,” a three-part series following America’s top high school musical theater performers as they arrive in New York City, documents an intensive week of theatrical boot camp as students vie for a chance at stardom in the National High School Musical Theater Awards (NHSMTA). The series will premiere on the Arkansas Educational Television Network (AETN), Sunday, Sept. 9, at 7 p.m. and continues on Sundays, Sept. 16 and 23, at 7 each night. 

“Broadway or Bust” is the first-ever TV series to capture the behind-the-scenes coaching and grueling rehearsal schedule leading up to the NHSMTA. Popularly known as “The Jimmy Awards,” named in honor of renowned Broadway theatre owner and producer James M. Nederlander, this national competition gives audiences a new perspective on a unique New York experience. 

Part competition, part performance and part non-fiction drama, “Broadway or Bust” will capture the highly charged atmosphere as the country’s most talented teens are plunged into the theatrical capital of the world to compete for a shot at Broadway and college scholarships. Cameo appearances by some of today’s biggest Broadway names will offer the kids insider perspectives and tips about working on the Great White Way. The final hour will showcase “The Jimmy Awards” at New York’s Minskoff Theatre, finalists’ performances, celebrity hosts and presenters, and the naming of the winners – the company’s top male and female performers.