Marble Falls theater students have best performance at state

EDITOR DANIEL CLIFTON

While the Marble Falls High School one-act play troupe didn’t win the state competition at the Round Rock ISD Performing Arts Center on April 24, actors hit a goal they and their directors had set.

“They had their best performance that day, and they can walk away knowing they left it all on the stage,” said Jon Clark, the school’s theater arts teacher and director about their performance of “The Storm in the Barn.” “I could not be prouder of this group and the journey they allowed me to be a part of.”

The University Interscholastic League’s one-act play 5A state meet showcases the top eight troupes from across the state.

Marble Falls High School students performed “The Storm in the Barn” at the state event following a rigorous schedule of district, bi-district, area, and regional competitions.

Despite not winning, Clark said he and the other directors swelled with pride watching his students perform.

“Seeing our kids up there on that stage, sharing their will for all of Texas to see was something I will remember forever,” Clark said. “State contest was everything we thought it would be and more. The audience was so incredibly generous and welcoming. The kids even received a standing ovation of a packed house of 1,500 people.”

Canyon Randall High School won the 5A state championship with “Never the Sinner.” Judges selected Frisco High School’s performance of “Shipwrecked!” as first runner-up and Corpus Christi Tuloso-Midway High School’s performance of “Lend Me a Tenor” as second runner-up.

Two Marble Falls students earned individual recognitions. Aidan Garrett was named Outstanding Technician, the only one recognized in the 5A contests, for his role in projections. Zachary Young was named to the Honorable Mention all-star cast list.

Getting to state was a team effort. Clark applauded his co-directors, who helped elevate the students’ performances to state level. Mary Fournier, assistant theater director, handled the majority of the technical duties, and assistant choir director Emily Chavez jumped in to oversee the production’s music for the last three contests. Clark said Chavez’s assistance helped get the one-act play to two straight regional contests and now a state appearance.

“We have been in the top twenty-four shows in the state of Texas three years running, and that started when she volunteered to join our team,” Clark said.

Adam Goodman, the senior district technician for Marble Falls Independent School District, rounded out the directors’ team.

“He brings a wealth of technical knowledge that made this year’s show visually stunning,” Clark said.

Throughout the journey, from the first rehearsals to the final curtain call at state, Clark said the students and staff could not have made it so far without a network of people.

“We are grateful for the support from our community, school district, and families,” he said.

daniel@thepicayune.com