Four Carroll County high schools can boast of new accolades for their drama students after being honored for their efforts at the 2019 Maryland State Thespian Festival.
The schools – Francis Scott Key, Liberty, Manchester Valley, and South Carroll High Schools – each submitted one-act plays into the statewide competition, with many students competing for individual awards and scholarships as well, Carrol County Public Schools announced in a statement sent Tuesday.
The award for Outstanding Ensemble in Studio Theater went to Francis Scott Key High School’s one-act production “The Bald Soprano.” Best Actor nods went to Zach Brown and Justin Patterson for their performances. Cailah Moss earned two superior ratings, in so doing qualifying for the National Festival in Musical Theatre.
“The Lottery” took home Outstanding Sound and Outstanding Props awards for Liberty High School, with Best Actor recognition going to Cam Luther and Rachel Jancarek.
Manchester Valley High School’s production of “The Insanity of Mary Girard” placed second in the state, qualifying the school as alternatives to the National Thespian Festival. The show also earned awards for Outstanding Physical Work, Outstanding Vocal Work, Outstanding Costumes, and Outstanding Hair and Makeup. Individually, Jacob Schoenberger and Elizabeth Vinson earned Best Actor Awards, and Alexandra Overby and Schoenberger both qualified in Solo Musical Theater at the national competition, as well.
The premiere performance of “Negative Space” earned accolades for Outstanding Technical Crew for South Carroll High School. Senior Playwright Ashley Ingle was asked to submit her one-act script to the National Festival in the hopes it becomes a workshop. Best Actor Awards went to seniors Emma Hughes and Rachel Palmer. Junior Sarah Taylor earned two Superior ratings for her stage management, making her eligible for the national competition this summer, as well.
