superintendent’s

all-county Performing Arts awards gala

Wheaton High School Auditorium

May 15, 2017 6:30 p.m. Board of Education

Mr. Michael A. Durso President

Dr. Judith R. Docca Vice President

Ms. Jeanette E. Dixon

Mrs. Shebra L. Evans

VISION Mrs. Patricia B. O’Neill We inspire learning by Ms. Jill Ortman-Fouse providing the greatest public education to each Mrs. Rebecca Smondrowski and every student. Mr. Eric Guerci Student Member MISSION Every student will have School Administration the academic, creative Jack R. Smith, Ph.D. problem solving, and Superintendent of Schools social emotional skills to be successful in college Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D. and career. Chief Academic Officer

Kimberly A. Statham, Ph.D. CORE PURPOSE Deputy Superintendent of School Support and Improvement Prepare all students to thrive in their future. Andrew M. Zuckerman, Ed.D. Chief Operating Officer CORE VALUES Learning Relationships Respect Excellence Equity

850 Hungerford Drive Rockville, Maryland 20850 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org montgomery county public schools

presents the

seventeenth Annual superintendent’s

all-county Performing Arts Awards Gala

Recognizing Outstanding Achievements in Dance and Theatre

e

Welcome and Introductions Ms. Linda Adams s u p e r v i s o r , f i n e a r t s

Guest Speaker Dr. Jack Smith superintendent m o n tg o m e r y co u n t y p u b l i c s c h o o l s

Presentation of Awards and Spotlight Performances

Master of Ceremonies Ms. Joanna C. Fellows t h e at r e t e a c h e r s e n e c a va l l e y h i g h s c h o o l Ms. Tricia Gooley-Rarick da n c e t e a c h e r a l b e r t e i n s t e i n h i g h s c h o o l Mrs. Sarah Neubold co n t e n t s p e c i a l i s t , f i n e a r t s e

ii Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala e Quince Orchard High School PRESENTS “Holding Out for a Hero,” from Footloose Performed by Tobi Baisburd and featuring Maxine Asenso, Elena Asofsky, Annie Coulson, and the female ensemble of Footloose

Recognition of Honorees from Albert Einstein, Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Walter Johnson, Poolesville, and Thomas S. Wootton

Seneca Valley High School PRESENTS “Jitterbug,” from The Wizard of Oz Performed by the cast of The Wizard of Oz

Recognition of Honorees from Northwest, Montgomery Blair, John F. Kennedy, and Rockville

Montgomery Blair High School PRESENTS Excerpt from The Caucasian Chalk Circle, by Bertolt Brecht Performed by Luc Picone and Abby Rowland

Recognition of Honorees from Wheaton, James Hubert Blake, Col. Zadok Magruder, and Sherwood

Albert Einstein High School PRESENTS “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” from All Shook Up Performed by the cast of All Shook Up “Blaze of Light” Music by: Leonard Cohen Choreographed by: Tricia Gooley-Rarick and dancers Performed by AEHS Dance Company: Gabbie Ballesteros, Tionjua Branch, Chloe Chieng, Raiza De La Cruz, Davina Dennis, Destiny Dove, Taylor Forbes, Maya Glass, Cielo Gonzalez-Gomez, Alex Gramaglia, Brandon Grant, Anna Johnson, Grace Keller, Aisha Olemba, Nina Parraway, Munirah Ramadhan, Ellie Richmond, Callista Rosdina

iii Recognition of Honorees from Clarksburg, Winston Churchill, Richard Montgomery, and Springbrook

Northwest High School PRESENTS Highlights from Sister Act Performed by Kaylyn Battle, Matthew Brandon, Sam Candaffio, Tavish Young, Christopher Polio, Sam Gatica, Kyle Greber, Mehrshad Devin, Jamie Shegogue, and Sierra Buck

Recognition of Honorees from Quince Orchard, Damascus, Northwood, and Watkins Mill

Wheaton High School PRESENTS “Poor Unfortunate Souls” from The Little Mermaid, Jr. Performed by the cast of The Little Mermaid, Jr.

Recognition of Honorees from Seneca Valley, Gaithersburg, Paint Branch, and Walt Whitman

Clarksburg High School PRESENTS “Carnival del Barrio,” from In the Heights Performed by the cast of In the Heights

Group Picture and Thank You!

e

iv Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Contents

Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. 2 Montgomery Blair High School...... 4 James Hubert Blake High School ...... 6 Winston Churchill High School...... 8 Clarksburg High School...... 10 Damascus High School . 12 Albert Einstein High School...... 14 Gaithersburg High School...... 18 Walter Johnson High School . 20 John F. Kennedy High School...... 23 Col. Zadok Magruder High School ...... 24 Richard Montgomery High School ...... 26 Northwest High School. 28 Northwood High School...... 30 Paint Branch High School...... 34 Poolesville High School ...... 36 Quince Orchard High School...... 38 Rockville High School...... 40 Seneca Valley High School...... 42 Sherwood High School...... 44 Springbrook High School ...... 46 Watkins Mill High School . 48 Wheaton High School...... 50 Walt Whitman High School...... 52 Thomas S. Wootton High School...... 54

v bethesda-chevy chase high school Donna R. Jones p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Adam Graham a s s i s ta n t d i r e c to r s ...... Apostolos Kalabakas, Michael Pagliaro o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Marshall White v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Lisa Itkin t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Bill Toscano choreographer ...... Emily Isaac

2016–2017 Season Hairspray Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse

DIRECTED BY ALIZA BRODER Tick...Tick...Boom!

DIRECTED BY ELLIE HOGAN AND FIONA SELMI The Twilight Zone

2 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Bethesda-Chevy Chase Theatre Honorees

Aliza Broder There’s a special place in my heart for all the shows I’ve done at B-CC, but there’s one show in particular that I hold dear. This past February, we presented Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse. I directed it. Directing is a lot of work, and I loved every minute of it. There were times when I thought we wouldn’t be ready, times when I worried that the kids that came to our in-school performance would get bored, and times when I wanted to hide in the orchestra pit. But our opening day came, and as the house lights came up after the show, I felt a surge of pride. I’d created something from nothing but a script, and it was remarkable.

Emily Isaac Living confidently and with strength to communicate is not easy for most people. As someone involved in theatre, living on the stage and working with others to tell magnificent stories that bring people together has set me apart from those who are afraid to speak out. Whether it was dancing in the ensemble of Hairspray or performing for children in The Jungle Book, I have carried the skills of compassion and passion alike beyond the stage and into my everyday life. Theatre has allowed me to be the best version of myself.

Misha Lerner My participation in theatre has not only contributed to my success in high school in the normal way that most extracurricular activities do—forcing me to schedule my time and work hard, and not only in the ways that theatre is expected to help one with academics, in training one’s memory and ability to look closely at a text, but, more important, theatre has taught me to see the humor inherent in all of learning. Some of my most joyful moments have come in the theatre, playing around onstage and offstage, and it is this act of play that has permeated my academic experience. In English, science, and history, the goal is not merely to reach a set of learning objectives, but to play, to experiment, just as one does in the theatre.

BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE High School 3 Montgomery Blair High School Renay C. Johnson p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Kelly N. O’Connor a s s i s ta n t d i r e c to r s . . . . .Niarah Jackson, Chaminda Hangilipola, Derek Lamb o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Raife Oldham v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Isabel Hernandez-Cata t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Brando Crabtree choreographers ...... Michelle Johnson, Angela Jones, Sabrina Li, Noelle McKoy, Luc Picone, Kennedy Rogers, Alanna Sibrian

2016–2017 Season Hamlet The Winter’s Tale The Wiz Comedy Showcase Student-Directed One-Acts

Accomplishments

❖❖Jack Russ—finalist at English Speaking Union Shakespeare speech competition ❖❖Folger Library Student Shakespeare Festival—three ensemble awards; Ronee Goldman, Jack Russ (Excellence in Acting awards)

4 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Blair Theatre Honorees

Niarah Jackson I have participated in nine plays and musicals during my time at Montgomery Blair High School. A highlight of my acting career was during my sophomore year, when I played the role of Dr. Livesey in Treasure Island. During my last two performances at Montgomery Blair, I was the assistant director. The performing arts have contributed to my success in high school by giving me a support system. Blair Theatre has been like a home for me. I would like to thank the O’Connors, my family, and friends for their unconditional love and support.

Luc Picone Since my sophomore year at Montgomery Blair High School, I have been involved in acting, directing, dance and fight choreography, and public relations (making show posters and video trailers) across 10 shows, some of which were student- led. In the 2016-2017 academic year, I performed as Claudius in Hamlet and was a choreographer and lead dancer for The Wiz, marking two of my greatest high school theatre accomplishments. Both shows were incredibly rewarding; I got to play my favorite Shakespeare character and had the privilege of working with other student choreographers and cultural consultants to learn about the history and meaning of dance in a show as culturally significant as The Wiz.

Abigail Rowland The theatre community at Montgomery Blair is my family. I have participated in seven shows there. Over the past four years, I have learned to act, dance, direct, and even sew. Just this past fall, I had the opportunity to play the role of Hamlet. It was by far the most rewarding experience I’ve had, because it forced me to figure out who I am as an actress and step out of my comfort zone to play an incredibly complex character. It also confirmed in my mind that I want to pursue acting in college and beyond, and I am so grateful for that.

Montgomery Blair High School 5 James H. Blake High School Christopher S. Berry p r i n c i pa l

da n c e d i r e c to r ...... Danielle D’Anna t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Michael D. D’Anna a s s i s ta n t d i r e c to r ...... Mary Wagner o r c h e s t r a & v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Harry A. Winter t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r s ...... Johnny Weissgerber, Mark Fearson choreographer ...... Colby Potts

Blake Dance Honorees

Clayton Allen What has made me proud being a dancer in high school is that I’ve seen how my body and performance has changed since the beginning. I’ve created my own art through my body in my own way. My hard work has made me proud as I can be and nobody can take that away from me.

Angela Blow “Angie has been taking dance for many years and has shown so much growth. She works very hard at multiple styles of dance and has proven she can be amazing on the dance floor!” —Ms. Danielle D’Anna

Sumaiyah Kee The performing arts have contributed to my high school success because they have allowed me to grow as a performer and entertainer. They give me a chance to freely express myself. Music helps me connect with my audience using my words. Dance allows me to tell stories without words. I feel most free when I’m dancing.

6 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Blake Theatre Honorees LJ Enloe “LJ Enloe has been an outstanding member of the Blake Stage Company as a performer in roles like Claudius in Hamlet and Oberon in A Midsummer’s Night Dream to singing roles as Adolpho in The Drowsy Chaperone and Cinderella’s Prince in Into the Woods, while, at the same time, working backstage on many projects, including business managing the Stage Company’s fundraising efforts and helping to lead the accumulation of up to $20,000 in funds for the Company. LJ was recently recognized by the MCPS Forensics League as the County Champion in the Children’s Literature Interpretation Category for 2017.” —Mr. Michael D. D’Anna Jacob Proctor “Jacob Proctor has been an outstanding member of the Blake Stage Company as a performer in roles like Garry in Noises Off and Demetrius in A Midsummer Night’s Dream to singing roles like the Baker in Into the Woods and Mr. MacAfee in Bye Bye Birdie in Blake’s acclaimed summer musical theatre program, while, at the same time working backstage on many projects including carpentry work on shows like Crazy for You and Hamlet.” —Mr. Michael D. D’Anna Niara Smith Theatre has helped me in defining who I am as a person and what my purpose is. Being on the stage and working behind the scenes helped me work through my insecurities and difficulty accepting myself, developing me into a confident and outspoken individual. Seeing the reactions the audience gives when a performance is done and having people come up to me and express what my acting did for them has allowed me to see the change I can inspire through theatre. Theatre is a way to become comfortable with your own identity, and can connect people in ways I hadn’t seen before. It’s a form of expression that is unlike any other and consequently impacts people unlike anything else, and it feels amazing to be a part of that.

2016–2017 Season Bye Bye Birdie Into the Woods Noises Off Will and Whimsy

James H. Blake High School 7 Winston Churchill High School Joan Benz p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Naomi Ratz o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Ari Allal v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Stephen Hildebrandt t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Ben Schnaap choreographer ...... Tiffany Carmi

2016–2017 Season A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum The Canterville Ghost

8 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Churchill Theatre Honorees

Taira Dolan I have been through many plays, musicals, and all-around performances at Churchill. I am grateful to have worked with such an amazing community. There are so many people that I have met who inspire me. All I wanted for my senior year was to be the leader that I had seen in others. My proudest moment was at the cast party for the winter play, when an underclassmen called me her role model. For me, theatre is about the people. The friends I have made through theatre have become my chosen family. They have impacted my life so positively, and I’m proud to have impacted theirs. Thank you to everyone who has helped me through my theatre career.

Bardia Memar Arts of all sorts are about more than telling stories. They are about tapping into people’s innate worlds and sharing that experience with our own mortal world. These worlds number many and can never be fully grasped by our infinite imagination, but their aesthetic appeal to my creative side made me among their most frequent visitors. Throughout my high school career I’ve had the good fortune to observe, and there were even times when I was able to engage in these beautiful worlds. These grandeur escapes, in combination with the innumerable friends I shared them with, have undoubtedly changed the very nature of my existence, and I credit this more than anything to my surviving the ever-mounting pressures of life.

Remington Steele Theatre has contributed to my success in high school in many ways. It made school more fun to go to. School can get boring or stressful at times and staying after school to rehearse and act was a great way to clear my head after the long school day. Theatre gave me something to do outside of school, which is something everyone should have. High school is all about a delicate balance between academic school work and extracurricular activities, which are the two keys to success in high school.

Winston Churchill High School 9 Clarksburg High School Steven C. Whiting p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Michelle Meyer o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Chuck Orifici v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Amy Kurtz t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Tim Clagett

2016–2017 Season The Laramie Project Spring In the Heights Stuck

Accomplishments

❖❖Eleven students qualified for nationals ❖❖Two students received thespian scholarship award winners ❖❖Two students received MCPS theatre festival scholarship awards

10 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Clarksburg Theatre Honorees

Kyra Allen My proudest moment was closing night of The Laramie Project, and barely seeing the standing ovation through tears for the last time. This was the first time we received consistent standing ovations since opening night, and it was because our performances were so powerful. Before that show, I hadn’t grasped how versatile theatre truly is in its impact. It was difficult for me to choose my calling to acting over my blossoming passion for activism, but that night I realized that my passions don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Although I’m proud of my individual accomplishments in theatre, sharing such an important message in a relevant time period stirred sentiments more powerful than self-gratification in tangible awards/ scholarships.

Carrie Edick Becoming a stage manager for my theatre department helped bring me to realize what I want to study in college and continue on professionally. My amazing director has always been the backbone to my education on this path and I am forever grateful.

Natalie Matthews At Clarksburg, the theatre program, CHStage, is a family. We help each other; we cheer each other on; we argue; and we love each other. My high school career would have been bland and uneventful had I not joined CHStage. Participating in theatre gave me a place where I always felt at home and gave me something to look forward to on days when I wanted nothing more than to skip school. The performing arts, whether the focus is on stage or off, teach students valuable lessons and skills that translate to classwork and real-life situations.

Clarksburg High School 11 Damascus high school Jennifer L. Webster p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Steve Kachadorian o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Charlie Doherty v o c a l & t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Brian Isaac choreographer ...... Luann Cannon

2016–2017 Season Greek Mythology Olympiaganza A Charlie Brown Christmas Addams Family

12 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Damascus Theatre Honorees

Victoria Alapati I’ve been a maid, waiter, chimney sweep, gotten my toe cut off, satirized Inigo Montoya, and been dead four different times, twice in one show. Theatre is a crazy place, where even the quietest student can belt an emo love song while wearing a makeshift to toga, and drive the crowd wild. I’ve also worked tech; it’s equally crazy, involves lots of power tools, and paint gets… where it shouldn’t. During A Charlie Brown Christmas, I danced around in a giant fuzzy suit for an hour; afterwards, the audience wanted pictures with Snoopy. Everyone loves Snoopy. I’m shy, but it wasn’t Tori Alapati taking pictures with children, it was Snoopy taking pictures with children. It was the highlight of my career.

Lucas Brown “Backstage and on the sound board, Lucas does it all. His leadership and experience has been invaluable to the Drama Club.” —Mr. Steve Kachadorian

Samantha Rosenthal A lot of time and hard work goes into any theatre production. It can also be extremely tiring and stressful, but the moment when it all pays off is opening night. Getting to perform in front of a live audience, whether they see me or not, makes it all worthwhile. Knowing that I took part in something that many other people enjoy is what makes me feel most proud.

.

Damascus High School 13 Albert Einstein High School James G. Fernandez p r i n c i pa l

va pa a c a d e m y h e a d & da n c e d i r e c to r a n d choreographer ...... Tricia Gooley-Rarick

2016–2017 dance season DCC Open House Winter Dance & Jazz Band Concert: The Journey 3rd Annual MCPS Dance Showcase Spring Dance Concert: Just Dance

Accomplishments

❖❖The AEHS Dance Company was chosen, out of over 140 entries, to perform at the Regional High School Dance Festival in Norfolk, Virginia, March 16-19, 2017. This was the company’s first time attending the festival and dancers had the opportunity to take master classes as well as audition for summer and collegiate programs. ❖❖The AEHS Dance Company was chosen, along with 16 other high schools in the state of Maryland, to perform during the evening concert of the 28th Maryland State High School Dance Showcase, held at Goucher College, January 6, 2017. They performed a new piece called Whistle-Stop ‘17. ❖❖Miriah Auth, Gabriella Ballesteros, Chloe Chieng, Davina Dennis, Maya Glass, and Ellie Richmond were nominated for Maryland All State Dance 2017. ❖❖The AEHS Dance Company and Junior Dance Company performed alongside seven other MCPS schools in the 3rd Annual MCPS Dance Showcase, held at Northwood High School, February 4, 2017.

14 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Einstein Dance Honorees Gabriella Ballesteros My high school experience has been unequivocally enhanced by my participation in the performing arts. Not only have I found expressive and freeing outlets, but I have also been allowed the opportunity to deepen my understanding of the arts and grow as a performer. By being a part of the Poms Squad and dance companies at Einstein, I have developed a love for choreography and expression through movement and, through theatre productions and choral groups at school, I have been able to pursue areas I feel exceptionally passionate about. These experiences have encouraged me to push my limits and created an atmosphere of perseverance that has been instrumental in my growth, both as a performer and as a person.

Taylor Forbes Before high school, I never knew the power that dance had on me. I never knew how to communicate through dance, and I never knew how much discipline, training, and dedication it took to make a great dancer. Before dance, I never knew what it was like to create art with my body and my soul. I was fortunate to dance in high school at a place that was home, at a place where I evolved into finding myself. Dance has been a passion since then, and my desire for wanting to learn and see more is unstoppable. While dancing and growing and finding myself, I had my highs and lows with my confidence, made mistakes, got set back challenge after challenge, faced internal and external obstacles; but through it all, I danced.

Aisha Olemba Participating in the performing arts while enrolled at Einstein High School has been an experience I will never take for granted. Having the opportunity to showcase my love for the arts, in particular dance, has made my high school experience amazing. For the past three years I’ve had opportunity to choreograph for my peers, showcase my talents at our school’s spring dance concerts, and display my growth as a dancer and choreographer to the community around me. More important, being in MCPS, I have been rewarded with the opportunity to work with such a diverse group of people, who have largely contributed to my growth as an artist. Learning about many cultures and combing different perspectives, I have been able to create and be a part of many eye-opening projects. Thank you Einstein for giving me such a diverse education and experiences I will remember for a lifetime.

Albert Einstein High School 15 Albert Einstein High School James G. Fernandez p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e a n d v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Peter Smeallie o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Brendan Kelly t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r s ...... Bruce Strand, Jeff Schneider, Karen Mikkelsen, Barbara Berman

2016–2017 theatre season The Skin of Our Teeth Renaissance Evening All Shook Up

Accomplishments

❖❖Students performed on WOWD-LP 94.3 FM Takoma Park.

16 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Einstein Theatre Honorees

Zoe Ades During my four years of Einstein STAGE, I have become a better individual by learning what it means to be part of a team. Participating in theatre has made me a more collaborative and accountable person. Assistant directing has taught me how to motivate and communicate. I have learned to rely on others and be someone others can rely on. Greatest of all, I have come to recognize the power of a strong team. Theatre has given me the greatest community I could imagine. The camaraderie of theatre has enabled me to push myself out of my comfort zone. Theatre has not only enriched my high school experience but has given me the tools to succeed throughout my life.

Katy Ann Carr My participation in theatre has helped me in several of my classes. However, the one subject that theatre really helped me in was calculus. When I was taking AP calculus, I was also learning how to build a staircase. The staircase was being built from scratch and so was my calculus foundation. The teacher’s aid of the class also worked backstage, and, along with her help and the help of the teacher who works backstage with us, I began to understand the concepts of limits and derivatives, while constructing the staircase carriage. Now when others ask me for help, I tell them the same example that I learned by, and it all seems a lot less overwhelming.

Jordanna Batista Peronico Theatre never ceases to amaze me, no matter the length, style, or form. These four dedicated years’ worth of shows, filled with blood, sweat, and tears by each and every company member (including myself) have allowed me to value all aspects of theatre, establish time management, strengthen my confidence and passion for self-expression, and open my eyes to the impact I have on the world. My proudest moments are my failures; they have led me down spirals of self-doubt, fear for my future, and lack of motivation, but the fire that was lit inside my soul from the moment I sang my first note and read my first line always reminds me of how much I love this.

ALBERT EINSTEIN High School 17 Gaithersburg High School Christine C. Handy p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r s . . . . .Julie Bourque and Sylvia Granados-Maready o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Dan Grande v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Brigitte Emenheiser t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... William T. Fleming choreographers ...... Julie Bourque, Brigitte Emenheiser, Sylvia Granados-Maready

2016–2017 Season The Election Once Upon a Mattress

Accomplishments

❖❖Theatre students performed onstage in a student production of Macbeth at Sidney Harman Hall with Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Text Alive! program.

18 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Gaithersburg Theatre Honorees

Sandy LaCrete After being cast in several plays and musicals at GHS, I was lucky enough to play the lead role in our last fall play, The Election. In the final debate, I had an intense monologue in which I had to yell and introduce the candidates. As I moved further downstage, I could feel that I had captivated the audience; all eyes were on me. I had successfully channeled and conveyed the character Kyli’s deep passion for politics. In that moment, I didn’t feel nervous. I felt invigorated. I am most proud of this role because the energy and emotion that I displayed had stunned the audience into complete silence, and it is something that I will never forget.

Noah Nesbitt My participation in the performing arts has contributed to my high school success in a number of ways, one of which is that it offers an outlet for stress and creative energy. Both chamber choir and theatre help me to simultaneously relieve stress and use talents that I would not be able to use otherwise. They also allow me to meet new people and make new friends. I am normally introverted, but I find it easier to approach people when I already know we share a similar interest. All in all, I am glad that I participated in the performing arts as much as I did in high school.

Jamal Sam When you start high school, you are placed in this overwhelming pool of students that yearn for a purpose and understanding. Theatre was just that for me. It offered a way of escape from troubles that I had no control of. It became my favorite hobby and nurtured into a potential career path. If high school teaches you one thing, it teaches direction, and acting was my path. It taught me stage presence, confidence, how to talk to crowds. It made me learn rejection and the quality of good work. There was this sort of energy that raised within me when I stepped out on that stage. And, most important, it gave me a home in high school—a safe haven.

Gaithersburg High School 19 Walter Johnson High School Jennifer A. Baker p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Colleen McAdory o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Andrea Morris v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Kelly Butler t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... James Mulhern

2016–2017 Season The Laramie Project The Phantom of the Opera

20 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Walter Johnson Theatre Honorees Maria Mills Theatre is the reason I was able to succeed in high-school. It allowed me to meet the most talented, creative, and dedicated people I know, who supported me through all of my challenges and triumphs. Even those I didn’t always get along with helped me, because they taught me the important life lesson that we need to work with everyone to achieve a common goal. As a props mistress, I learned to create magic from scratch. Through the long hours, short tempers, laughing, and crying, I grew in high school with my best friends, who became family. Theatre proved I can succeed no matter what obstacles may arise in the future. Because, as in life...the show must go on!

Jessica Winer There is so much I gained from my involvement in theatre, not only the practical skills—working with power tools and practicing paint techniques—but the life skills. Through stage crew I have honed my ability to solve problems. There is always a creative solution to every artistic challenge, whether it is rigging plastic tubing with red liquid to create a blood effect for Sweeney Todd, or fashioning stockings and coat hangers into butterfly puppets forShrek . Theatre is not only a performance, but it is the people working together to make one glorious product. As my technical director is keen to remind us, “theatre is the art of collaboration.”

Walter Johnson High School 21 John F. Kennedy High School Joe L. Rubens, Jr. p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Kia Davis choerographer ...... Monique Gardener & Kia Davis s ta g e d i r e c to r ...... Stacey Wahrman m u s i c /v o c a l d i r e c to r s . .Norman Stultz, Emily Zmoda, Megan Campbell t e c h n i c a l a s s i s ta n c e ...... Felicia Owens & Jesse Graham

2016–2017 Season First Kisses Once Upon a Mattress

22 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Kennedy Theatre Honorees

Inayah Avant Being involved in theatre isn’t only about the artistic outlet that is provided to you, it also means that you are privy to a community of individuals that are ELECTRIC in nature and in interest. Although I have not been performing for many years; in the short time in which I have, I have truly gained a stronger ability to problem solve and an intense understanding of responsibility. It has been a vital part of my high school experience. I would like to take the time to thank those who have influenced me—Ms. Davis, Mr. Utterback, Mr. Stultz, Kameron, and every other individual that has ever been in a production or on the tech crew with me.

Serena Russell Even though I’ve only been in Kennedy’s Drama Program for two years, I couldn’t imagine my life without it. It’s given me countless things I didn’t even know I was looking for. A sense of purpose, self-confidence, a career, but most of all, it’s given me a second family. I will be forever grateful for everything they’ve given me and I look forward to showing New York the KDC way!

Kirsten Tildon The Kennedy Drama Club is a place where I can go when I have a horrible day. It is a place where I will never be judged. A place where I can start over again. A family on call. I have been a part of KDC for four years now. I have experienced theatre at its best and worst. I have been blessed with two very different directors on my journey with KDC. I have earned skills thanks to KDC. I have learned many things—how to sew, build a bird cage, do strobe lighting, and many more. I can admit that, we when are not in production, I have sat quietly in front of the locked auditorium doors… so you ask what KDC means to me, I can only respond, “Everything.”

John F. Kennedy High School 23 Col. Zadok Magruder High School Leroy C. Evans p r i n c i pa l

d i r e c to r ...... Marla Harper o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Mark Eisenhower v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Peter Schmidt choreographer ...... Ricky Stakem t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Terri Lafond

2016–2017 Season The Imaginary Invalid Thoroughly Modern Millie

24 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Magruder Theatre Honorees

Elizabeth Doerrman From a very young age, I loved to sing. I knew from the age of 2 that when I grew up I wanted to be a performer. I began working harder than ever in high school to prepare for majoring in musical theatre in college, and to someday work professionally. Music has been how I got through the hardest parts of high school and how I rejoiced over the happiest. Performing has helped me create tight-knit friendships and an unbelievable support system that has helped me thrive not only in performances, but as a person as well. I have been able to take what I love and I am now able to make a future out of it in college.

Kate Rempe My proudest moments during my time at Magruder Drama were those in which the set was finished, the show went on, and I saw what my crew and I had created coming to life. It has always been extremely rewarding for me, knowing that I have accomplished something so unique, and that I’ve successfully helped others in my crew to achieve it with me. I know that, when I’m gone, they will have everything they need to accomplish things on their own, and experience the same pride that I have.

Col. Zadok Magruder High School 25 Richard Montgomery High School Damon A. Monteleone p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Emily Davis o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Peter Perry v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Ron Frezzo t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Eric Rodney choreographer ...... Sandra Atkinson

2016–2017 Season Guys and Dolls Student-Directed One-Acts The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later

26 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Richard Montgomery Theatre Honorees

Malory Hartman When I watched the opening night performance of The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later, I wanted to laugh. That may be weird, given the subject matter, but all I could think about was the hilarity, just a week before, as I tried to program more than 170 lighting cues in real time with a plot that was ill-designed at best. It was a mess, and so was I. But watching the show just a week later, it looked amazing. Nothing has ever made me more proud than that transformation from disaster to spectacular in just seven short days.

Noah Montemarano In my freshman year, I sat terrified in a room full of strangers waiting to audition for Sweeney Todd. I didn’t know how to sing or act well. And as I looked at the seasoned drama students around me, I panicked. Around 2:20, I grabbed my bag and quietly walked out of the room. I rushed to the parking lot, only to see the last bus driving down the street. “Shucks,” I thought. I went back to auditions to deliver a panicked, half-shouted, half-whispered monologue. Surprisingly, I was still cast. And over the course of several years, those same strangers taught me how to perform and they became my closest, most encouraging friends. I’d like to dedicate this award to them.

Sally Simpson Being part of the Black Maskers Drama Club has helped me gain confidence in my skills as a crew member, and eventually as a leader. I am most proud of our production of Les Miserables in my junior year. As the assistant technical director, I had to figure out a way to time the cart crash so that the crash, music, and moving lights were all coordinated. It took a stage manager following an orchestral score and counting the beat of the music in my ear over headset. But in the end, the crash was timed perfectly, and looked pretty awesome too.

Richard Montgomery High School 27 Northwest High School James N. D’Andrea p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Sherion Cosby v o c a l d i r e c to r s ...... Josh Sommerville and Stephanie Baker t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Lilly Greenlee choreographer ...... Shawn Cosby

2016–2017 Season Fame Sister Act

28 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Northwest Dance Honoree

Fernando Naranjo What made me most proud throughout my school dance career was that, as dance captain, I was given the opportunity to lead and help people have that “OH” moment. The experience overall was amazing and will never be forgotten. I have made so many new friends and been given so many opportunities. This is my proudest moment in my high school dance career, because I know I worked hard to get here. It is such an honor; but of course, this is just the beginning. I want to thank the Cosbys for all that they have done for me. I really cannot thank them enough. Most of all, I want to thank my parents for supporting me in everything I do. Thank you.

Northwest Theatre Honorees

Kameron Brown Kameron J. Brown has been a devoted member of the Northwest Drama department since his sophomore year, when he played Nick Carraway in the production of The Great Gatsby. The past three years have been phenomenal as he has had the opportunity to develop his craft as thespian, and he has formed great friendships with members of the cast and crew. Kameron has also been able to spread his wings as vocalist for the first time this year, participating in his first school musical. After high school, he plans to matriculate to a four-year university to study dramatic arts and/or communications. He personally thanks Mrs. Cosby for being such a blessing to his growth as an actor and performer.

Tavish Young Participation in the performing arts has contributed immensely to my success in high school. It has given me a home away from home and a whole second family to make proud. Theatre helps a lot. Not only are you not allowed to participate in the shows if you become ineligible (which would be a fate worse than death) but Algebra 2 seems a lot more bearable when you know you have a show after school. Jokes aside, I would love to thank Mrs. Cosby, Shawn Cosby, Mrs. Greenlee, Mrs. Lisa, and Mr. Cosby for everything they have done and for making me a part of their big happy family, and my parents for their support and all that they do.

Northwest High School 29 Northwood High School Mildred L. Charley-Greene p r i n c i pa l

da n c e d i r e c to r ...... Holly Jones choreographers . . . . .Holly Jones, Meredith Lazzaro, Corinne Luetje

2016–2017 dance Season Winter Dance Concert MCPS Dance Showcase Spring Dance Concert

30 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Northwood Dance Honorees

Rifa Ariella The performing arts at Northwood high school have contributed to making the best version of me. Dancing allowed me to express my personality, ideas, creativity; strengthened my passions; and taught me to think fast. Even though my involvement in performing arts required a lot of time, dancing never felt like a chore and every time I did it I had the best time. I learned to work with people, work with myself, and learn from the best teachers I could have.

Jamaal Bowman My proudest moment in my high school dance career was when I placed in the National NAACP ACT-SO Competition for Contemporary Dance last year. It wasn’t just about the medal I won, it was also about finally realizing how much I’ve grown over the years. Finally realizing that my years of hard work have paid off. My first year dancing was my ninth grade year at Northwood; and after sophomore year, I just knew that my passion was with dance. Since then, I’ve worked on improving myself every day, acknowledging that there will always be room for growth. It’s great to know that I can look back and thank Northwood for everything I’ve accomplished, because I’d be nowhere without them.

Celeste Puente During my four years in high school, all my accomplishments revolved around my choreography. I’m proud of all the choreography I am leaving behind at Northwood High School. During my sophomore year, I choreographed a dance to a spoken word piece about bullying. During my junior year, I choreographed a dance to an instrumental song about breaking free from being controlled and being who you are. Lastly, my senior year’s choreography is what I am most proud of because this was chosen to be the class choreography for Dance Company; and it was about body love. Body love is something that I struggled with all four years in high school and to see my story on the stage makes me smile and love myself.

Northwood High School 31 Northwood High School Mildred L. Charley-Greene p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Heidi A. Temple o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Michael Barker v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Ryan Sullivan t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Johnny Thrift choreographers . . . . .Holly Jones, Meredith Lazzaro, Corinne Luetje

2016–2017 theatre season 16 in Ten Minutes or Less Billboard Magic 2017: Legends One-Acts: Distortion Room Legally Blonde, the Musical

32 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Northwood Theatre Honorees

Zachary Combs During my high school career, I’ve been involved in many productions at Northwood High School. I feel participating in these productions really helped shape me as a person. Theatre made me a more outgoing person and taught me how to speak in front of people. On top of that, I met many of my closest friends through my theatre experience. Acting grew my confidence and sparked my interest in a field I’d never thought I’d be interested in. I feel that participating in the performing arts has helped me to succeed in high school, and my experiences here will help me succeed in my college years.

Nikoleta Exis The thing I am most proud of is taking the knowledge I have acquired from previous years and directors and using that knowledge in order to successfully co-direct and produce my very own production of seven one-act plays. Directing and creating my own production was the most stressful but also the most fulfilling experience.

Kailyn Richards Through the fine arts, I have grown to become a more confident and driven person. By being included in various productions and presentations at Northwood High School, I have had the opportunity to discover more of myself as a learner and how I can collaborate with other people. I owe my success to the musical theatre department for showing me that expression is essential, and in applying what I have learned, I approach life with creative and original perspectives every day.

Northwood High School 33 Paint Branch High School Myriam A. Yarbrough p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Amber Clair Perkins o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Sean Kirchhoff v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Ronald Johnson t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Cristin Ryan

2016–2017 Season Absolutely Murder Most Likely To... Honk!

34 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Paint Branch Theatre Honorees

Ayibatari Owei “Anything for theatre...except death” is my motto; but that being said, bald caps are never fun. In ninth grade, I auditioned for The Importance of Being Earnest. I didn’t believe I would be cast (I wasn’t), but this didn’t deter me from wanting to audition for the musical, Working. After a theatre-less ninth grade, I decided to audition for the fall show, The Miracle Worker. I didn’t have any confidence that I would receive a role, but, surprisingly, I was cast for the role of Aunt Ev. This was the beginning of my dedication and love for Paint Branch Perspectives and theatre. The three years I’ve spent with Perspectives can be summed up with “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Perspectives has allowed me to feel comfortable performing, even when playing the zaniest of characters, like Uncle Fester from The Addams Family. I think the “worst of times” will absolutely come when I’m forced to say goodbye to my Perspectives family. They’ve truly been the best.

Irvin Pamah Before joining theatre, I was struggling in my English classes. I knew I could do better, but I had a hard time understanding concepts and finding hidden meanings in texts. Performing in theatre demanded the complete understanding of the plays, forcing me to study my character and those interacting with it. As soon as I started performing, I noticed a change in my grade. The more I performed, the better it became. Suddenly, I was acing all my tests and was able to write complex and meaningful essays. Without theatre, I would not be as successful in my English class today.

Paint Branch High School 35 Poolesville High School Deena Levine p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Nathaniel Gordon t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r s ...... Jeff Jones and Beth Fayard Jones m u s i c d i r e c to r a n d co n d u c to r ...... David Rogoza choreographer ...... Claire Jones

2016–2017 Season Romeo and Juliet Thoroughly Modern Millie

36 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Poolesville Theatre Honorees

Josephine Caruso-DiPaolo As the years have passed, the Midnight Players at Poolesville High School have helped me grow as an actress, student, and person. I’ve seen myself become more confident. A confidence that has helped me speak more comfortably in class and helped me stand by my ideas. It’s shown me that no matter what you do, as long as you keep trying, things will get better. But most important, the theatre has made me believe and work toward something bigger than myself. Thanks to the Midnight Players and our fantastic director, Nathaniel Gordon, I’ve learned skills that some take a lifetime to learn, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities they’ve given me.

Aja Drain The Midnight Players has created an incredible outlet for me for the past three years. It has allowed me to experiment with my creative side, an opportunity that I do not have during the school day. From stepping out of my comfort zone as my partner lifted and twirled me across the stage in Seven Brides to Seven Brothers to transforming into the ultimate villain in Thoroughly Modern Millie, my confidence has grown significantly. I am the dance captain for our cast, and I dedicate every afternoon throughout the school year to work on our shows. I could not balance my schoolwork without having somewhere to have fun and truly be myself, and drama has been that place for me.

Jessica McElroy “Jessica has such vision for design and how all aspects of theatre production tie together. She has been an invaluable leader, ensuring the best for the production.” —Mr. Nathaniel Gordon

Poolesville High School 37 Quince Orchard High School Carole A. Working p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Nicholas Jullian Saadipour p r o d u c e r ...... Linda Lee o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Robyn Kleiner-Vilgos v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Kelly Puza t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Alexander Henry choreographer ...... Shawn Cosby

2016–2017 Season Almost, Maine Footloose

38 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Quince Orchard Theatre Honorees

Daniel Holten I have had the time of my life in the theatre program at QOHS. It’s where I made the majority of my friends, was given the opportunity to do what I love, and was what made me the person I am today. My love for singing, dancing, and acting has been fulfilled through my four years and eight shows in QO Theatre. The collaboration skills and people skills I have learned from high school theatre will stick with me for a long time, even after my theatre career is over. I received an award from DC Metro Arts for my performance this past fall in Almost, Maine. This was my proudest moment in my high school theatre career.

Mason Radis Despite spending a large part of my past four years on the Quince Orchard stage, my proudest moments as a member of the Drama Club wasn’t while I was acting. My proudest moment was working with Brian Cipperly and the rest of my Drama Club family to utilize my Eagle Scout Project to leave a permanent mark on the Quince Orchard auditorium. In my freshman and sophomore years, it was a clear that there was a slight issue with storage of equipment and other necessary items. I designed four sets of extra storage in unutilized locations and organized a team to build and install the shelves. Now, whenever I go backstage, I always see the mark I have left.

Madison Wakefield After spending the past four years of my high school career up at the tech booth, there is no greater feeling than witnessing every production. No show is ever the same. Different crowds experience what you have to offer, and every time the reactions vary. As I stand in the booth, I take in the entire atmosphere. I see when people laugh, when people cry, and when the audience sits back in complete awe of what was created before them. Though there is a sense of exhilaration in the start, the energy is overpowering when the cast comes out for bows. The cast raises their hands towards the tech booth, and I know in that moment, I helped to create magic.

Quince Orchard High School 39 Rockville High School Billie-Jean Bensen p r i n c i pa l

da n c e d i r e c to r ...... Debra Williams t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Dana K.S. Tobiassen a s s i s ta n t d i r e c to r ...... Maya Ward o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Phil Barnes v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Lindsay Hein t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Daniel Tobiassen choreographer ...... Mia Krawczel

2016–2017 Season The Murderous Mansion of Mr. Uno Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka

Rockville Dance Honoree Tonya Ghonda Well, I have been dancing for as long as I can remember. I have been participating in dance classes at Rockville High School, and I have been involved in theatre. After getting rejected my first time in ninth grade for auditioning for this one play, I was really hurt and wanted to give up. But, I decided to try again the following year and I made it, and my performance in that play led to an article written about me in my school’s newspaper! Also, I have been involved with dance companies and performed at many schools and theatres, as well as at Kings Dominion! Dancing outside of school has affected my success at Rockville because I could bring my dance skills into my dancing class and help lead the class warm-ups.

40 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Rockville Theatre Honorees Tristan Burch I joined the stage crew at Rockville High School my sophomore year. It has been one of the most interesting and fulfilling experiences of my life. Working with my technical director, I learned to build sets, hang flies, and coordinate scene changes. I am most proud of our work in the musical, Back to the 80’s, because of its multiple complex sets and many dazzling light arrangements. In addition, advancing from stage hand to stage manager has vastly improved my problem- solving and communication skills. I cannot thank my director and technical director enough for having given me these opportunities to excel. Mia Krawczel While enrolled in Rockville High School, I have competitively danced for Dawn Crafton Dance Connection, twirled baton for the world champion Wheaton Majorettes, was captain of the Rockville pom team and choreographed the school musicals since sophomore year. I spend more than 30 hours during the 5-day school week dedicating my time to these extracurriculars. One of my most memorable moments during my high school career was performing Back to the 80’s. We had one of our first sold-out shows in a long time, fun, wild dance numbers to popular 80s songs while wearing bright, old-school costumes. I knew that theatre was where I was supposed to be because it was where I had the most fun. Maya Bennett Ward I am incredibly honored to receive this award and would like to thank all the friends and family who have helped make this possible. I would not be as successful in my academic career were it not for my career in theatre. Through theatre, I was able to undertake new challenges and develop new skills, show my commitment and perseverance, and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively. I learned to accept the enormous responsibility of having others count on me and to put forth my best effort so that I would not let them down in return. I was also able to help and support others in both a friend and mentor role, and I am very grateful for that.

Rockville High School 41 Seneca Valley High School Marc J. Cohen p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Joanna C. Fellows a s s i s ta n t d i r e c to r s ...... Reese Beyers and Caitlyn Hooper o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Adam Stephens v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Michelle Searle choreographers ...... Joanna C Fellows and Caitlyn Hooper

2016–2017 Season Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play The Wizard of Oz Student-Directed Showcase

42 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Seneca Valley Theatre Honorees Mikayla Braswell What made me feel the most proud during my high school theatre career was standing together with the cast and crew before our performances. Warming up, I saw a dedicated group of people, excited for what came next. Holding hands, I knew that though some of us were leaving, they would never truly be gone. Every production added more to the family. It was in these moments that I realized just how far we’d come from where we started and how much we’d grown. We spread our energy and love through every person. We share laughs, we shed tears. Then we go out and put on an amazing show. We’re all in this together.

Sarala Lincoln My experience with the performing arts has been very positive and has given me a lot of friends, while helping me to become more decisive. It has helped me to successfully do many group projects in school. The theatre program has also given me many skills, which I can use later in life for both classes and life. Without theatre, my life would be very different. I would be a lot quieter, and I’d have a lot fewer friends. Theatre made my high school experience great and gave me something to look forward to every day, because I’d get to be with people who I care about and who care about me just the same.

Samantha Socha Being in theatre taught me the importance of being organized as well as time management. Because of the performing arts, I was able to find my passion and meet friends that I hope to keep for the rest of my life.

Seneca Valley High School 43 Sherwood High School William M. Gregory p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Andrew R. Dodge o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Alex Silverbook v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Johnathan Dunn choreographer ...... Grayson Willis

2016–2017 Season The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Winter One-Acts Getting Away with Murder

44 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Sherwood Theatre Honorees

Shelby Cullen Prior to my high school years, I had never set foot in the backstage of a theatre, nor had I ever touched any power tools or lighting equipment. Upon entering my freshman year, I decided to try out tech with my best friend and, soon after, I fell in love with working on the tech crew. I have since participated in nearly every school production and been a stage manager of the productions for the last two years. Over that time, I have made many new friends and kept up relationships with old ones. Working in theatre has taught me a lot about theatrical production and the technical aspects of shows, that I had taken for granted.

Mikael Daniel From the first day of the first musical I was a part of, to the last day of the last musical, time could not have gone by faster. There could not have been a better way to spend the last four years of high school. Each and every day was met with a new and interesting task that always made what I did fun. And what I did was manage the sound aspect of the four musicals I worked on. During the final play, I had the honor of passing along my learned skills on to a new generation of tech crew members, essentially a four-years-younger version of me. To see how far I’ve come made me proud.

Maggie Lin I started participating in tech crew in the sixth grade, and I have continued throughout all my years in high school. I have been involved in the crew of nearly every show at Sherwood, and in later years was privileged to stage manage multiple shows. Being involved in the performing arts has truly enriched my life. Not only have I made great friends, I have also been able to relinquish my fear of taking charge through experiencing leadership roles. While these leadership experiences have helped me attain success in high school and overcome timidity, I know they will also help me in years to come, both in college and beyond.

Sherwood High School 45 Springbrook High School Arthur Williams p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Adrienne D’Orazio t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r s ...... Kat Pong and John Weinshel o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Kevin Dolan v o c a l d i r e c to r s . . . Emily Donaldson, Sara Garside, and Grace Scarano 2016–2017 Season Witness for the Prosecution Pippin

46 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Springbrook Theatre Honorees Lila J. Cooper My participation in theatre during high school really shaped me into the hardworking, compassionate person that I am today. Being in the program has helped me make connections with many different aspects of my life, and it has really been the highlight of my high school career.

Gabriella Melendez I didn’t know I would participate in theatre when I was a freshman. But I can’t imagine how my high school years would look without it. Through theatre, I have made so many friends, become comfortable on stage, and learned to pursue my passion. It was in theatre that I met the people who were just as weird as me. It came to the point where school was the thing I went to before rehearsal, and rehearsal was never long enough. I hope to pursue theatre in college recreationally and thank all the people who pushed me.

Cayden Renich My time in theatre has greatly improved my time in high school. Thanks to floor managing, assistant directing, and acting, I’ve learned how to manage my time well and even just how to talk to people.

Springbrook High School 47 Watkins Mill High School Carol L. Goddard p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e a n d t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r s . . . . .Jamaly Allen, Scott Tarzwell p r o d u c e r ...... Scott Tarzwell o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Alex Thanicatt v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Rodney Long choreographers ...... Kendrah Nolasco, Eudel Ndong

2016–2017 Season Laramie Project 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee ArtSpeak! with Kerry Butler and Seth Rudetsky

48 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Watkins Mill Theatre Honorees

Jyline Carranza Throughout my high school career at Watkins Mill High School, I have created many memories. Out of all of the memories I have created with my cast mates, the most memorable one was putting together the production of In the Heights. When we were reading over the script and learning the music, we all realized how beautiful the show was. It promoted diversity, which we all love. Almost every single cast member had come from a diverse background, so they were able to relate to many different aspects of the show. Aspects such as poverty, immigration, and being the first in the family to go to college. Personally, what gave me an emotional connection to the show was how similar I was to the character, Nina Rosario. Similar to her, I am the first person in my family to go to college. When the show opened, we saw how much of an effect it had on our school, a lot of the students had told us that they related to everything in it. I felt so proud to be a part of a department that was so impactful.

Lenox Kamara “Lenox is well known to everyone at Watkins Mill, as well as to many in community theatre. His dedication to all things theatre is inspirational to everyone he works with. We will miss his leadership, his fun-loving attitude, and his focus.” —Mr. Scott Tarzwell

Ian Nathan Theatre in high school has made me into a more fun and outgoing person and has taught me to be a leader. I rose up from an understudy actor, to being the president of my school’s drama department. My college essay was written on my theatre experience, and I haven’t been declined by any school!

Watkins Mill High School 49 Wheaton High School Debra K. Mugge p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Sarah Forman v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... John Marlowe t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... John Gallagher da n c e d i r e c to r a n d choreographer ...... Josephine Kalema

2016–2017 Season The Election Least Offensive Play in the Whole Darn World Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.

50 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Wheaton Theatre Honorees

Tatiana Paden Drama club has helped me truly develop and change as a person throughout high school. The most beneficial part of drama club for me was meeting so many new people, making amazing friends, and having even more amazing memories. Over the years of theatre and drama, I have gained many skills that I can use in my day-to-day life. From speaking skills to just all-around better communication. I am now the makeup and costume head for the Wheaton High School Drama Club and have been for the past three years. I will dearly miss it when I go off to college. Even though I’m not pursuing a career in acting or theatre, it will still always be a part of my life that I will love and cherish.

Alex Tekle I am most proud of the family that I’ve found in drama. The Wheaton Knight Players have a sort of bond and an amicable connection. The friends I’ve gained in my freshman year have led to the person I am today. I’m not going to lie, I like being in the spotlight. But for the ovations I receive onstage, I’m given double the love and companionship backstage. I leave this place not a wise man, but wiser than I once was. Thanks to all of my friends for the opportunity to put myself out there.

Ly Truong Out of all the things that the Wheaton High school arts department has brought me, I’ve never been more proud to just represent this amazing program. It has brought me new experiences as well as a family to love, and I feel nothing but pride when representing my school on stage.

Wheaton High School 51 Walt Whitman High School Alan S. Goodwin p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Christopher Gerken o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Terry Alvey v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Jeff Davidson t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Travis Swiger choreographer ...... Melani Drummer

2016–2017 Season Jesus Christ Superstar The Crucible Road Trip 2k17 One-Act Play Festival Bat Boy the Musical

Accomplishments

❖❖Accepted into the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe Festival for the fourth time

52 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Whitman Theatre Honorees

Rebecca Keteltas During my time in high school, I participated in the drama program, both on the stage and through Drama Club. Drama has always been something that I’ve worked hard at, and being successful on the stage showed me I could be successful in my schoolwork and in my personal pursuits. Being the co-president of my school’s Drama Club has given me the opportunity to prove to others and myself what I am capable of off stage as well. Because of Whitman Drama, I know that ambition is worthwhile and that, if given the right support and opportunity, any individual can thrive, as I am certain I will, thanks to my high school performance experience and all that it has prepared me to do.

Laura May The performing arts had an immense impact on my success in high school. Theatre allowed me to have a creative outlet to escape to every day, after a stressful day of school. It also provided me a home where I could explore artistic expression and learn how to lead others in an effective manner, skills I will continue to use as I move forward in life. I will always be grateful to the amazing students and adults that I met through the theatre program, they all helped me to mature and learn all four years of high school.

Kylara Mundy Although academics allowed me to develop my intellectual ability, working on the technical crew allowed me to become a well-rounded person by teaching me how to collaborate with others. Our director’s high expectations have allowed me to discover my potential and I have become more confident in my own abilities as a result. I got to work in an environment that encourages creativity on a daily basis. It has provided me with an outlet to express myself, in my work and with my peers. Beyond that, I have made lifelong friends and have had the opportunity to work alongside them.

Walt Whitman High School 53 Thomas S. Wootton High School Kimberly M. Boldon p r i n c i pa l

t h e at r e d i r e c to r ...... Carla Ingram o r c h e s t r a d i r e c to r ...... Carolyn Herman v o c a l d i r e c to r ...... Keith Schwartz t e c h n i c a l d i r e c to r ...... Catherine Boswell choreographer ...... Sharon Stein

2016–2017 Season Death and the Devil Daniel Webster The 25th Annual Putnim County Spelling Bee Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Accomplishments

❖❖Regional Competitor for the English Speaking Union Shakespeare Competition ❖❖Cappie Critics Organization

54 Superintendent’s Performing Arts Awards Gala Wootton Theatre Honorees

Daria Kerschenbaum Throughout high school, I not only got to try on a variety of roles within the dramatic arts like stage manager and student director and theatre critic. I also produced a variety of my own original theatrical work. Last year, my one-act play, Marriage Suite, won Center Stage’s Young Playwrights Competition and was produced as a part of the Montgomery County and Silver Spring Playhouses’ One-Act Festival. My high school theatre career culminated this year in my Senior Independent Project for Wootton’s Arts and Humanities Program, Radio 10 Nightly News (or Those Hours after Midnight). I wrote, co-designed, directed, produced, and performed this capstone project, an immersive play for one to four audience members at a time.

Emily Ray School theatre has been such a wonderful outlet for me these past four years. Through Wootton Theatre I have learned how to compromise and grow, both as a performer and a person. Theatre is a magical art form that allows you to connect with others in a truly unique way. I know that I will never forget all of the wonderful memories I have made through Wootton Theatre, from Maid #1 to Cinderella, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Roma Venkateswaran Wootton Theatre has shaped me into the artist that I am today. As a freshman actress/aspiring doctor, I could not have predicted that, as a senior, I would be a sound designer headed to college for technical theatre. Wootton Theatre has provided me with the opportunities to develop my artistic capabilities and perspectives. The skills that I have developed, such as organization, collaboration, and leadership, are universal, helping me to be both a better artist and a better person. My experiences in high school performing arts have been an incredible stepping stone to further theatrical opportunities. I know that my future theatrical endeavors will be built on the strong foundation with which Wootton Theatre has provided me.

Thomas S. Wootton High School 55 e

acknowledgments Ms. Joanna Fellows MASTER OF CEREMONIES, SENECA VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL Ms. Tricia Gooley-Rarick MASTER OF CEREMONIES, DANCE TEACHER Ms. Sarah Forman THEATRE TEACHER, WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL Mr. John Gallagher MEDIA SERVICES TECHNICIAN, WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL Dr. Debra Mugge PRINCIPAL, WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL Dr. Jack Smith SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Dr. Maria Navarro CHIEF ACADEMIC OFFICER Dr. Erick Lang ASSOCIATE SUPERINTENDENT, CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS Mr. Scott Murphy DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF SECONDARY CURRICULUM AND DISTRICTWIDE PROGRAMS Ms. Linda Adams SUPERVISOR, FINE ARTS Mrs. Sarah Neubold CONTENT SPECIALIST, FINE ARTS Ms. Barbara Smakula ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY, FINE ARTS

e

Published by the Department of Materials Management for the Department of Curriculum and Instruction 1012.17 • Editorial, Graphics & Publishing Services • 4/17 • 300