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Some of the best young acting talent in the area are now unquestionably from Wildcat land.
Elgin Middle School theater department's cast won first place at its University Interscholastic League district's One Act Play Festival at the Bastrop Performing Arts Center April 6. Actors and behind the scenes personnel won individual awards.
“Our students worked hard for three months, preparing for this festival. Just like the butterflies, our kids showed strength and perseverance as they soared to an amazing performance,” said teacher Katie Brock while also referencing the play's title. “I am honored and proud to be their teacher.”
EMS performed “I Never Saw Another Butterfly,” by Celeste Raspanti. The play tells the true story of Raja Englanderova, one of the children who survived the concentration camp Terezin, and also highlights her family, friends and classmates. Englanderova shares her story of living in the concentration camp, while retaining a world filled with butterflies and flowers with other children in the camp.
Elgin Middle School finished first out of six schools.
“The judges told our cast they were excellent in telling the story from beginning to end,” added Brock, “and that they gave a powerful performance.”
Caylee Quirgua played Raja and was named best performer at the festival. CJ McInnis won an all-star cast listing for his role as Honza. The district Tech Award went to Draeven Stewart. Honorable mentions were awarded to Fabian Lopez and Leonardo Garcia for their roles as children of Terezin.
