Students were encouraged to refine their talents and remember that they are given from God
On April 12, the theatre arts program honored and celebrated the achievements of its students at the annual Theatre Arts Awards forum. During the event, faculty recognized the efforts of the many hardworking students in the program.
At the close of the forum, the department also recognized the legacy of retiring professor George Nelson, who teaches theatre playwriting and directing. Several members of the faculty, as well as students in the audience, spoke about how Nelson has impacted their lives and taught them how to be good teachers.
Following the comments from the students and faculty, Nelson offered a few closing remarks. He observed that theatre is an important part of sharing the gospel of Christ “so that every person can hear the gospel in their own language.”
He added that “the skills and talents that we teach here [in the theatre program], the things that you’re gaining, are essential.” Nelson encouraged the students attending to continue to refine their talents and gifts and to always remember that they are given from God.
Vera Hinckley Mayhew Playwriting Contest
Ten-Minute Play:
First place: Bethany Teames
Honorable Mention: Samantha Daynes
Best World-Building in a 10-Minute Play:
Andrew-Elijah Schindler
One Act Play:
First Place: Samantha Daynes
Honorable Mention: Alyssa Call
Best Concept for a Musical:
Samantha Daynes
Outstanding Theatre Student — Finalists
Sadie Veach
Elliott Sweeney
Sydney Southwick
Elisabeth Goulding
Outstanding Theatre Student — Winners
Emma Hansen
Julia Rowley
Outstanding Acting Student
Emma Andreason
Freja Jorgensen
Justine Kitteringham
Trevor Komm
Bethany Teames
Outstanding Scenic Design Student
Elisabeth Goulding
Outstanding Lighting Design Student
Emma Hansen-Bayless
Outstanding Costume Design Student
Ryver Meacham
Outstanding Makeup & Hair Design Student
Emilie Ronhaar
Outstanding Sound Design Student
Katie Black
Outstanding Stage Management Student
Ellie Kuoppala
O. Lee Walker Award
Gabriella Warnick
Paul Hintz
Outstanding MDT Student
Luke Rands
Brendon French
Cagen Tregeagle
Benjamin Butters
Outstanding Playwriting Student
Avery DeGering
Outstanding Critical Studies Student
Spencer Fields
Outstanding Dramaturgy Student
Lillian Bills
Outstanding Directing Student
Joanna Noall
Outstanding Theatre Education Student
Reyna Shumway Workman
Sarah McDonald