The Rosie Awards 2025
The 2025 Rosie Awards: Celebrating Young Artists with Integrity at The Melanie Rosaline Albright Foundation
On January 11, 2025, the Indiana Drama Club proudly participated in The MRA Foundation, Rosie Awards ceremony for the third year. This heartwarming event is a celebration of young artists from Theatres across Central Indiana who exemplify integrity, creativity, and dedication to the arts. The awards ceremony, held at UINDY Ransburg Auditorium, gathered nine local Theatres, each of which showcased their most promising talents and recognized students who inspire with both their artistry and character.
At this year’s event, we had the honor of performing "It’s Okay," a heartfelt song from our 2024 world premiere production Super Cyber Battle Rangers. The performance was an unforgettable highlight of the evening, but what truly made the event special were the awardees we had the privilege of recognizing.
Each participating theatre had the opportunity to present two awards to students who had demonstrated remarkable qualities both on and off stage. At Indiana Drama Club, we are proud to announce our two 2025 Rosie Award recipients: Norah Skaggs and Ade Shreve.
The Rosie Awards and the Legacy of Melanie and Rosalie Albright
The Melanie Rosaline Albright Foundation was established in honor of two sisters, Melanie and Rosalie Albright, who found immense joy and purpose in the arts while battling cystic fibrosis. Their inspiring journey of resilience and creativity became the foundation’s mission: to provide young people—particularly those with challenges or facing adversity—with a place where they can be supported and accepted through the arts.
As one of the few organizations in Indianapolis offering scholarships for youth to pursue their passion in any performing arts discipline, the Foundation is a beacon of hope for aspiring artists. From acting and singing to dance and technical theater, the Rosie Awards are a platform for celebrating these young talents who embody not only skill but integrity, humility, and the spirit of community.
Two Extraordinary Unicorns in the Spotlight: Norah Skaggs and Ade Shreve
At IDC, we believe that talent is much more than being able to sing, dance, or act. True artistry lies in the ability to collaborate, uplift others, and bring a sense of joy and warmth to any project. That’s why we were thrilled to recognize two exceptional students who personify these traits and more: Norah Skaggs and Ade Shreve.
Norah Skaggs—a name synonymous with bravery, leadership, and generosity—was the first of our award recipients to be recognized. In our speech, we said:
"In theater, we often hear of actors referred to as 'triple threats'—those who can act, sing, and dance. However, there are rare unicorns among us—actors with such incredible versatility and talent that they can only be described as mythological creatures. Norah Skaggs is one of these unicorns. She is a fierce actor, a compassionate leader, and a constant source of support for her castmates. Norah's bravery on and off the stage is something to be admired. She’s a natural-born leader who makes us all better. Norah, you are one of our most cherished humans, and we are thrilled to present you with a Rosie Award.”
Ade Shreve—a student whose boundless enthusiasm, creativity, and infectious positivity have made a lasting impact on all of us—was our second recipient. Our speech for Ade read:
"Ade embodies the saying, 'There are no small parts, only small actors.' Ade’s larger-than-life characters and expressions captivate audiences immediately, and their commitment to any role, no matter the size, is a testament to their character. Ade has been the first to volunteer for any task, and their artistic talents have transformed our set designs into works of wonder. But perhaps the most impactful part of Ade’s presence is their ability to infuse every room with laughter, joy, and light. Ade, since you’ve joined IDC, we’ve been richer in love and energy. We are beyond excited to present you with this Rosie Award.”
These two remarkable young people exemplify what it means to be an artist and a friend. They are leaders, innovators, and creators who elevate every project they are part of, and we couldn’t be more proud of them.
Why the Rosie Awards Matter
At the heart of the Rosie Awards is the belief that the arts are a space of acceptance—a sanctuary where young people can feel seen, heard, and supported. The Melanie Rosaline Albright Foundation has made it their mission to ensure that no young person is excluded from the transformative power of the arts, regardless of financial or personal obstacles.
Through scholarships, mentorship, and programs, the Foundation provides young artists with the opportunity to explore their craft in an environment where they can grow, learn, and, most importantly, be themselves. This year’s Rosie Awards ceremony was a shining example of the profound impact this work has on youth in the region, and we are grateful to be part of it.
As we move forward into another year, IDC remains committed to fostering the next generation of artists—students like Norah, Ade, and so many others—who inspire us with their talent, generosity, and integrity. We are proud to be part of a community that celebrates not only the art but the artists who create it.
Looking Ahead
The Melanie Rosaline Albright Foundation’s mission to support youth in the arts is one that resonates deeply with all of us. The next generation of artists is bright, and with organizations like the Foundation leading the way, we are excited to see the amazing things these young creators will continue to achieve.
To the Melanie Rosaline Albright Foundation, thank you for your dedication to youth in the arts. To Norah and Ade, congratulations once again on your well-deserved recognition. And to all the talented young artists across Central Indiana—keep shining, keep creating, and keep making the world a more beautiful place.
For more information on how you can support the Foundation’s mission, or to donate to future scholarships, visit The Melanie Rosaline Albright Foundation.