Pictured is the cast of “Where Words Once Were.” Photo provided.
Pictured is the cast of “Where Words Once Were.” Photo provided.
The Warsaw Community High School Select Theatre cast of “Where Words Once Were” by Finegan Kruckemeyer placed first at the Indiana State Thespian Conference against 10 state-qualifying troupes.  

The group also was awarded Best Technical, Chapter Select and received a gold ranking in the Thespian Honor Portfolio, according to a news release from Warsaw Community Schools. The Thespy Superior rankings were Olivia Gabrich, stage management; Joel Montoya and DeeDee Polk, duet musical; Bradyn Lowe and Ethan Spencer, duet musical; Hailey Hershberger, solo acting; and Jadyn McLeod and Aubrey Harp, duet acting.

WCHS Principal Troy Akers said, “A simple congratulations wouldn't do justice to acknowledge this accomplishment! The time, energy and efforts from Melany Morris, theatre teacher and director, and the cast have produced a performance worthy of this state championship. Well done!”

Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert said, “We are so proud of these students and instructors for their dedicated work in the theater arts. These awards represent a tremendous achievement.”  

WCHS Select Theatre will be representing Indiana at the International Thespian Festival in June. The International Thespian Festival is a week-long celebration at Indiana University in Bloomington and is an amazing honor, the release states. Students will attend workshops with theater professionals, watch other high school performances and more.

More information will be forthcoming in the coming weeks on how to support the local WCHS theatre troupe in the next steps of their achievement journey, stated the release.