Dressing everything from a pop star to an anthropomorphic starfish to not one but two groups of 1970s characters, here are the 2022 Orlando Sentinel honorees for leading actor in a comedy as selected by theater critic Matthew J. Palm.

Although it’s impossible for one person to see every local production, as the Orlando Sentinel’s theater critic, each year I see a broad spectrum of dramas, comedies and musicals. The individuals selected by me for this 2022 theatrical honor roll, presented here alphabetically, elevated the theatrical arts. Go to OrlandoSentinel.com/arts to see the honorees in other fields, and check back on Dec. 20 to learn the Critic’s Pick in this category.

Emogene Cronnell’s costuming for May’s “The SpongeBob Musical” was delightfully evocative rather than literal, with her vibrant outfits that letting the audience know who was who, even in human rather than animated form. A favorite touch: Starfish Patrick’s pink beanie and star earring.

June’s “Say Goodnight, Gracie” brought us back to the 1970s, and Samantha DiGeorge perfectly chosen costumes — oh, those brown and…