The Academy of the Performing Arts

at

Maryvale Preparatory School

The Academy of the Performing Arts’ “Burkie Awards” got their start in 1999 when the Music and Dramatic Arts Department of Maryvale Preparatory School established an awards program to celebrate excellence in the theatre.

Named for Nancy M. Burkhart, an actress, director, producer, and dynamic teacher, who believes that any student who wants to perform is given a role based on their ability.

The Burkie Awards made their official debut immediately after the Spring Show in 1999.

During the first year of the Burkie’s (1999), there was no official Burkie Award. The winners were presented with a certificate. 

In 2000 the design of the Award took the form of the statue that is given today.  It continues to be the official Burkie Award.