By Rene David Basulto - Monsignor Edward Pace HS
Drama students from Msgr. Edward Pace High School won numerous awards and received call-backs for scholarship auditions at the 2015 Florida State Thespian Festival, held in Tampa March 25-28.
MIAMI GARDENS | Students from Msgr. Edward Pace High School’s Academy for Visual and Performing Arts Theatre Program and drama classes once again made waves by winning multiple accolades at the 2015 Florida State Thespian Festival, held in Tampa March 25-28.
All of the Pace juniors and seniors who performed at the festival were called back for scholarship auditions. Juniors Antonio Rodriguez, Victoria Jebian and Therese Callison were accepted into Fairleigh Dickinson University’s theatre program, while senior Kenea Sejour was accepted into the New York Film Academy.
Every piece showcased by Pace students was highly ranked in its category by judges. Earning Superior (first place) were:
- Senior Christopher Cheng in the category of Solo Musical and Cheng and Company in Large Group Musical;
- Victoria Jebian and Frank De La Oliva in Duet Musical.
Earning Excellent (second place) were:
- Lexie Suarez and Company for Large Group Musical;
- Leslie Castiblanco for Costume Design;
- Jamie Adelson for Playwriting;
- Kirstie Vargas for Publicity Design; and
- Cheng and Company for Small Group Musical.
In addition, two Pace Drama students were Critics' Choice winners:
- Bradley Perez won in Sound Design and
- Jessica Caravia won in Makeup Design.
For their wins, Bradley and Jessica were rewarded with workshops from top technical theatre professionals at the festival.
“All of the students are incredibly excited about their experience,” said Christina Pla-Guzman, lead teacher for the Academy for Visual and Performing Arts Theater Program.
The year is far from over for Pace Drama, as they will be putting on a production of the musical "Hairspray" April 21, 22, and 23 at 7 p.m. in the Pace Spartan Center. Tickets are $12 pre-order and $15 for VIP or at-the-door. VIP tickets include a reserved seat in the first few rows and a free snack. For more information, please e-mail [email protected].
