"What in the heck is a Thespis?
Welcome!
all you current, new, and future (we hope!) Thespians. Right now your
eyeballs are rolling over all of our secrets and traditions, plus more random
pieces of relevant information than you could ever want to know about
Thespian-ism. Read on.
Ladies and gentlemen: picture, if you will, a place where time has no
meaning, a place where spatial boundaries are overcome by mere wooden
fixtures, a place where ordinary people are transformed from static
creatures to fantastical playmates at your whim. Leave behind your daily
grind and ho hum humanity to enter THE THESPIS ZONE….
--one may hear you ask. One what? One thespian, hopefully, otherwise
one might not be able to answer you. I, luckily for you, am a thespian. I
would first correct you by saying, "Ah, but you mean who the heck is
Thespis"? Then you would smack me and I would get on with it: Around
500 BC, Thespis changed drama from the form it had then to the form it
has now. He, according to Greek legend, was the first man to speak
independently, in other words, without the chorus, thus bringing out a
single character. That is the basis for modern theatre. The Greeks also
said he introduced makeup (then white lead paint -- probably very itchy)
and the idea of tragedy. It is recorded on the ancient "Parian Tablet" (for all
you history buffs) that around 534 B.C. Thespis was the first to produce a
tragedy at Dionysus' festival. It was a major hit and everyone copied his
idea. Soon everybody was writing or performing in plays, most notably at
the festival of Dionysus. It is said that even the worst criminals in the area
were allowed out of prison to see these plays. Wow, and to think we are
still doing plays today. The way I see it, theatre must be something grand.
This feeling is shared by our director, Keli Rodgers. Let's see what she
has to say about it:
Sunshine (that’s short for Ms. Rodgers) says: I not only feel it is
something grand, I know it is something grand. This fall, I will direct my
th
105 production, so I know theatre is grand, awesome, beautiful and the
most difficult thing I have ever had the pleasure to be a part of. I love the
theatre for many reasons, but most of all because it is such a challenge. To
do theatre well is truly to achieve something valuable—valuable for the
audience, the actors, the techies -- the human spirit in us all.
Department Philosophy
As students get involved in SMNW Theatre, they often find themselves
being pulled in many different directions. Being involved in theatre can be
very time-consuming and I think it is important for you to know what your
obligations will be as you become involved with this department. As the
director, I encourage everyone who is interested in theatre to offer his or
her services. The people who are more involved with the department have
a slight edge when I cast, because dedication is important, but, if you play
a sport or are involved in other activities and consequently can only
audition for one or two shows a year, I certainly will not penalize you for
that. Experience in theatre helps, but I feel all your other activities make
you a stronger actor, technician, and human being, so ultimately all you do
makes you a more capable, contributing member of this department and
your art. So, if you choose not to audition or cannot accept a tech position,
I certainly understand. The only thing I cannot understand and will not
tolerate is your acceptance of a role or tech position and then your failure
to carry out your obligations. Say no, no problem. Say yes and do not
follow through, and you are much less likely to be cast again.
"Will you give me a role even though I am a freshman/ a first-time actor/a nervous wreck/etc.?" You might also be interested in my philosophy of casting. I do not "give"
roles. You earn them. As directors, Mama T., Debbie Green, Mindy
Moritz, Mr. Schwartz and I are primarily concerned with putting together the
highest-quality show possible. Therefore, I am going to cast the people
who most closely embody the characters. There are, of course, a lot of
factors I consider. They include:
· Quality of audition - primary decisive factor
· Age (upperclassmen do have a slight edge.)
· Previous exhibition of responsibility. Are you always on task, and do
you always finish the job given to you by the deadline? Are you always on
time to rehearsal? Do you know your lines?
· Physical appearance. Do you fit the character type? Would your
appearance blend in with the others being considered? (Unless a specific
ethnicity is a necessary plot point, we practice colorblind casting.)
· Experience
· Dedication to the department. Do you participate in Thespians? Did
you help raise money during the fund-raiser? I encourage everyone to
audition for every show you can because 1) it displays your current level of
development, 2) it helps me remember you if I don't already have you in
one of my classes, and 3) it gives you audition experience. You do not
have to be cast in a show to participate. A good way to become involved is
to come to tech sessions on Saturdays and some nights after school (6-9
pm.) The times are always posted outside the Little Theatre and everyone
is welcome. You can come whenever you have time, stay as long as you
like and sign out whenever you need to leave. You get the same amount of
thespian credit as the actors do which is about 1 point for every 5 hours of
work.
--Keli Rodgers
"So who are all those wild and crazy people
claiming to be in charge around here?"
Rebecca Anthony – Ticket Sales
Before the internet, people--like parents and students--had to talk to people--like
teachers--to reserve and purchase tickets for SMNW productions. Since our online ticketing system has been vetoed, audience members must still do things the
old fashioned way. So, either call 993-7364 or email nwanthon@smsd.org to
reserve tickets. You can pick them up at will call a half hour before the show. You
can still purchase tickets at the door. Mrs. Anthony will be in the lobby providing
professional people-to-people contact and the best selection of remaining seats.
Deborah Lee Green – Vocal Director Debbie is happy to be back at
Northwest working on another musical. Debbie graduated from Northwest just
after the time that dinosaurs roamed the earth. She went on to study opera at
UMKC and had a satisfying performance career, performing leading roles in the
operas of Verdi, Puccini, Gounod, Mozart, Menotti, Humperdink, and Britten, as
well as numerous oratorios, and appearing in solo performance with the KC
Symphony, before settling into the important work of raising her three children. She
continues to perform and teaches private voice lessons. Debbie has provided
musical direction for past Repertory Theatre productions of The Fantastiks, Lucky
Stiff, Working, Into the Woods (in which she also had the pleasure of singing The
Witch), Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street , Side by Side by
Sondheim, Big River, Once Upon a Mattress and Les Miserables as well as
Cabaret, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Fantasticks, Gypsy, Anything Goes and
Dames at Sea. Debbie would like to thank her family for supporting the time she
invests in her students.
Mindy Moritz –Choreographer
Mindy graduated from SMNW in 2005.
She was a Thespian officer for three years and committed almost all her time to the
theatre. Mindy has participated in over 50 musicals in the last fifteen years of her
life; playing everything from chorus girl to leading lady. She has a passion to
perform, but loves teaching as well. She's choreographed and directed numerous
shows for CYT and other educational theatre companies. Mindy has taught tap,
jazz, ballet, and swing both traditionally and privately. After graduating from
SMNW, she was a musical theatre major in college, then recently finished at a
Leadership Academy in Colorado Springs. She is delighted to be back in Kansas
City choreographing for her alma mater. NW audiences may remember Mindy as
Annie in Annie Get Your Gun, Rita in Lucky Stiff, Carrie Snow in Carousel, a
member of the award-winning ensemble of Working, Her Mother in The Fantasticks
or as the director of Dames at Sea. She was also the choreographer for Grease!,
Side by Side by Sondheim, Paint Your Wagon , Big River, Once Upon a Mattress,
Les Misérables, Cabaret, Gypsy, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Fantasticks and
Anything Goes here at Northwest.
Tom Moss – Associate Principal for Fine Arts
(and international man of mystery) We have done our homework and come up with
answers to some of the questions concerning the international man of mystery
whom we are happy to have as our Associate Principal for Fine Arts. Mr. Moss
graduated from Southwest Missouri State with a degree in Music Ed., got a Masters
from KU and, in case you were worried, an MS in Educational Administration, as
well. So, even though he was the NW Band guy for 14 years until 2000, he is
eminently qualified to keep a bunch of unruly Thespians in line. “The Fine Arts
Department at Northwest consists of some of the finest students and teachers
found anywhere. I am thrilled to have been given an opportunity to work with these
fine people as NW Associate Principal.”
Keli Rodgers – Director
A true visionary (so says Carrie Shanafelt-future
famous author) and a disciplined director (so also says Carrie Shanafelt-still future
famous author). Ms. Rodgers has directed our theatre department for going on
twenty-one years now. With over 100 productions to her directing credit, all cannot
be listed, but a few of her favorites are: The Rainmaker, Arsenic and Old Lace, The
Night of January Sixteenth, 42nd Street, The Foreigner, The Importance of Being
Earnest, Little Shop of Horrors, Once Upon a Mattress, Crazy for You, The Last
Night of Ballyhoo, Crimes of the Heart, Ten Little Indians, You’re a Good Man,
Charlie Brown, The Miracle Worker, All in the Timing, The Night Thoreau Spent In
Jail, Lucky Stiff, Working, Pirates of Penzance, Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd
and Big River. From Starlight Theatre’s Blue Star program, Ms. Rodgers has
received four nominations for Outstanding Direction of a Musical (for Working, The
Pirates of Penzance Bye Bye Birdie and Sweeney Todd). In 2007, she was thrilled
to receive from her peers the Parker Award for Excellence in Teaching. Under her
direction, expect to be treated like a mature professional -- you'll figure the rest out
yourself.
Insane is such a harsh word. We prefer "occasionally schizophrenic."
Anyway, each one of us officers has written our own little piece of advice to
you and info about ourselves to help you, you know, break the ice, or
something like that. Here goes:
Scot Schwartz - Vocal Music Teacher
Elizabeth McElroy-President
Scot attended Baker
University & graduated with a BME in 1991. During the spring of that year, Scot
student taught in Jack Ballard’s choral classroom at Northwest. Scot began
teaching in the Shawnee Mission School District at Rising Star Elementary in 1994,
where he taught grades K-6 classroom music. During his tenure at Rising Star, he
th
wrote and directed several musical productions for his 6 grade students. Scot
was the Shawnee Mission Elementary Educator of the Year in 2004-2005, and was
a nominee for Kansas Teacher of the Year and the Disney Hand Teaching Award.
He received his masters in education degree from Mid-America Nazarene
University in 1997, and his ESL endorsement from Emporia State University in
2004. Scot finally returned to become director of choirs at Northwest in 2005,
following the retirement of the infamous and beloved “Capt.” Jack Ballard.
Judy Tuckness – Technical Director Not only a superb TD, but
practically a foster mother for any and all would-be "techies,” she is affectionately
referred to as "Mama T." Mama T works tirelessly with her enthusiastic crew of
students to ensure that sets are great, and no one gets hurt. Her work for NW
includes The Mikado, Funny Girl, The Passion of Dracula, Musical Comedy
Murders of 1940, The Music Man, The Rainmaker, Charley's Aunt, Anything Goes,
The Night of January Sixteenth, Steel Magnolias, 42nd Street, The Importance of
Being Earnest, The Foreigner, Hello, Dolly!, Harvey, Once Upon a Mattress, Little
Shop of Horrors, The Crucible, Blithe Spirit, Li'l Abner, Night Must Fall, Barefoot in
the Park, Grease, Guys and Dolls, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Nerd, Joseph ...,
Crazy for You, Inherit the Wind, Born Yesterday, Starmites, Kiss Me, Kate, The
Boys Next Door, The Good Woman of Setzuan, Pippin, Brigadoon, A Doll House,
The Last Night of Ballyhoo, Molly Whuppie, How to Succeed…, Crimes of the
Heart, Ten Little Indians, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Oklahoma!, The
Miracle Worker, All in the Timing, The Fantastiks Carousel, The Night Thoreau
Spent In Jail, You Can’t Take It With You, Lucky Stiff, Annie Get Your Gun, The
Crucible, Black Comedy and The Real Inspector Hound, Working, Pirates of
Penzance, Our Town, Fools, Into the Woods, Mousetrap, Grease! Paint Your
Wagon, Big River, Once Upon a Mattress, The Man Who Came to Dinner, Cabaret,
and Les Miserables. Mama T. would like to add: "Being a technical director is a
natural extension of my creative self, allowing me to extend my artistic expression
and have a great time doing it! The stage at SMNW is a big canvas to work with,
but so was that three-acre pageant site I did sets for in Independence. As an art
form, theatre is ever challenging; it moves, it's colorful, it's emotional; theatre is
magic!"
"Okay, but who’s in my own commercial target
group? Are they, you know, insane?"
Elizabeth McElroy is a junior this year.
She is so excited to be your troupe president! Elroy was last year's treasurer and
hopes for another great year with Thespians. She is also a choir officer, JV Bowler,
and IB Diploma Candidate. Her passions include singing, devouring fantastic
novels, Netflix, and generally enjoying life. "Acting is not being emotional, but being
able to express emotion."
Marlee Bell-Vice President
It's hard to believe this short girl is a senior!
How the time flies! Marlee has been an active member of Thespian Troupe #888
since day one of her freshman year. She has been involved in every production at
Northwest, whether it be on stage in Les Miserables, Cabaret, Thoroughly Modern
Millie, Gypsy, Anything Goes, etc. or as Head Costumes Mistress. Marlee found
her second family with the troupe, winning Best Freshman, being on the officer
board for three years now, first as Clerk #1 her sophomore year and then Publicist
her junior year. She couldn't imagine her high school career without the help of the
wonderful friends she has made. She loves the troupe and everyone in it! When not
with Thespian Troupe members Marlee enjoys spending time with CYT and
Immeasurable Productions. "The world is not a wish granting factory." -John Green
Danielle Rehor– Secretary Ellie is thrilled to serve on Officer Board for
another year as a Junior! In the two years past, she has dedicated much of her time
to the troupe participating on stage in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Gypsy, and
Anything Goes, as well as backstage for The Good Doctor and Dames at Sea as
Props Mistress along with many hours of tech work. She also served as Fundraiser
for the 2013-2014 Officer Board. Outside of theatre at NW, Ellie also plays
basketball for the Lady Cougars and the Eclipse. As the poster child for trying new
things, Ellie encourages all of you to participate in the theatre program and to dive
in to this NW theatre department. If you choose to do so, you will be rewarded with
not only knowledge of the art of theatre, but also knowledge about yourself, how
others live and thrive, true responsibility, and many other lessons that can only be
learned by those who are dedicated--since the more work you put in, the more
reward you get out!
Rebecca Carroll- Treasurer Rebecca, a junior, is beyond excited to be
your 2014-2015 Treasurer. Although she knows it will prove to be a difficult
challenge, she is up to it. You may remember her name from her past
NW productions, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Gypsy, Anything Goes, and The Night
of January 16th. She has also worked backstage for productions such as The
Diviners and hopes to work backstage much more in the coming years. She has
also appeared in many productions outside of NW, for exmple Annie and Seussical
at the Theatre in the Park and Thoroughly Modern Millie, Hot Mikado, Honk, and
Once on This Island with MTYP. Alongside her love for theater, Rebecca has
enjoyed dancing competitively for seven years, one of those years with her current
dance studio, Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice. Rebecca will be an IB
Diploma candidate this year and next, and an active member of Repertory Theatre
and Thespian Troupe #888 as a whole. She is so excited for what this year has to
offer and promises to bring her best to the troupe and all its members.
Vanessa Cecil-Clerk #1 Vanessa is so excited to start her junior year here
at NW! She will be recording any and all points, so, if you have any questions or
concerns (including tech hours or inductions) talk to her! She is a pure techie and
some of her past shows include: Gypsy (grip), The Good Doctor (grip), Anything
Goes (props crew), Crimes of the Heart (props head), Marcus is Walking (House
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Manager), and The Night of January 16 (House Manager). She is a great person
to ask any techie-related questions. Outside of the troupe she is involved in
Acapella choir and various IB classes.
Kenzi Parsons-Clerk #2 Kenzi is ecstatic to kick off her sophomore year
and serve as this year's Clerk #2! Although you may have seen her onstage in
Anything Goes, she has spent most of the past year backstage on costume, set
construction, and sound crews, as well as serving as AD. Outside of theatre, she is
a member of Girl's Select Choir, Choir Officer Board, and Drill Team. She wants all
the incoming freshman to know that if you stick with theatre, this group will become
your second family. "And I thought I could, so I did, and now I am."-Tim Minchin
Olyvia Anothayanontha-Publicist Olyvia is soooo excited for this
year! She can't wait to get to know all of the incoming freshpeople and anyone else
new to the theater world. Last year Olyvia was involved in Anything Goes (chorus),
Crimes of the Heart (AD), and Dames at Sea (Props). She is thrilled to be working
as Publicist for the 2014-2015 season and can't wait to see what is in store for this
year! "Everyone's a star and deserves the right to twinkle."
always here…. Let's make this a great year!
Nick Senior-Fundraiser
Nick Senior is a junior—paradoxical, but true.
He has been heavily involved with the theatre department ever since 7th grade and
has stayed involved as he has participated in almost every show since his
freshman year. Audiences may remember him in Thoroughly Modern Millie or The
Good Doctor, or as the Purser in Anything Goes. Nick also participates backstage
in set construction. He is involved in Chamber and Acapella Choirs, as well. On top
of all of that, Nick takes pride in his academics; he has been ranked in the top 5
both his freshman and sophomore years. In what free moments he has, he spends
time with his family. Nick is looking forward to a great year of fundraising!
Maggie Marx-Social Secretary Maggie is a senior this year and feels
beyond blessed and excited to serve as this year’s Social Secretary! You may have
seen Maggie most recently playing Mona Kent in Dames at Sea or Bonnie in
Anything Goes last year. Along with many other performances, theatrical and
school event/fundraiser wise, Maggie enjoys performing with numerous community
theaters as well such as Starlight, CYT, MTYP, Olathe Civic Theatre Association,
Musical Theatre Heritage, the Barn Players, and many more. Maggie also enjoys
singing around the midwest as a country music singer. She is known for singing
the national anthem around town at Royals games and such. She has been a two
time KC Superstar finalist, and she adores cantoring at St. Joseph Church and
devoting her time to the worship team at Journey Church of Lenexa. School
relatedly, Maggie has been recognized as a two time Blue Star Nominee this past
year, she qualified as a national IE finalist at the Thespian State Conference 2014,
and she has served as the Sophomore and Junior Representative for Thespian
Troupe #888. Outside of the troupe, you may have seen Maggie on camera
working with KUGR, or, in future cases, you may see her performing onstage with
the A Capella Choir or Chamber Singers. So, if you haven’t already guessed,
performing is most definitely her life!!! Maggie cannot wait to get to know each and
every new person who joins the troupe this year, as well as create even more
beautiful memories with the ones already a part of the thespian family. It’s going to
be a super fun, bonding-filled year! Philippians 4:13!!!
Josh Harris-Stage Manager Josh is so proud to be the 2014-2015 stage
manager for Thespian Troupe #888. Josh has lots of experience in technical
theatre and plans to get better and better with it until he makes it a career. Josh has
worked four shows here at NW including Anything Goes, Crimes of the Heart,
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Dames at Sea, and The Night of January 16 as light board operator and spotlight,
but he has also worked at Avila University, Theatre in the Park, and has done lights
for NW talent show, drill team, choir, and orchestra. He loves the theatre and is
dedicated to making the show the best it can be by any technical means, or even
just by moral support. He puts the show in front of all else to insure the audience
gets to experience the theatre as he has.
Rachael Carney-Historaturge Rachael is excited for the new shows
and to meet new people! I want to really make a difference because hey I'm gonna
be graduating… anyway, I take care of all the pictures, albums, websites and you
name it. As lights crew head, I take care of all the lighting that goes on such as
concerts, shows, award ceremonies, etc. It is a big job but I love doing it. I'm
currently working at New Theater Restaurant for changeovers and I was a spot
operator for them last summer. If you have any questions or if you need to chat, I'm
TOP SECRET
Wild and Crazy
Thespian Rules and Traditions
The Catwalks:
First of all, if you don't need to be up there for work or literary entertainment,
don't be. As a certain member of our Thespian Troupe demonstrated a few years
back, you shouldn't be running around up there, especially without the lights on.
And most importantly, unless you belong to the current senior class (worry not, one
day we all will) you are not to write anything, anywhere, at any time, for any reason.
For those of you who are astute, when you do get the opportunity to WALK around
in the catwalks (with the lights on, of course) you may notice a lot of writing all over
the place. "I thought you couldn't write up there," you may retort, and I will reply to
you "NO, I said YOU couldn't write up there." Those "inspirational vandalisms" are
lovingly placed on the boards of the catwalk by SENIORS during their final show, or
whenever they get around to it :-). Feel free to read any/all of them sometime.
They are beautiful and touching in their own right and are even more meaningful
when you know the authors. If you are caught signing the wall before you are a
senior, you are likely to find yourself in a sewer somewhere minus a few body
parts. Yes, I'm exaggerating, but the effect is the same. It is taken VERY
seriously! Enjoy the beauty!
The Golden Hammer:
The Gypsy Robe:
Luke Meyer—Once Upon a Mattress-2010
Matt Harrison—The Man Who Came to Dinner-2011
Julia Stanislav— Les Misérables-2011
This robe is a tradition started many years ago on Broadway. The dancers on
Broadway are known as gypsies because they must travel a lot. One evening, a
particular gypsy realized she had nothing to give friend on the friend's opening
night. She finally settled on donating her bathrobe after she had decorated it with a
memento representing the friend's show. (---?! Don't ask me, I'm just the secretary.)
The girl who got it was touched, and when a different friend of hers opened in
another show, she attached to the robe another memento and gave it to gypsy #3.
Every time someone opened in another show, the person who had the robe passed
it on until the robe was covered with little mementos and the robe had to be given
up to the Smithsonian. Thus began the tradition of the Gypsy Robe.
Our SMNW Gypsy Robe began after our first production of Joseph and the
Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat when Brian Lowe's mom made one. Brian, who is
now the principal at Mill Creek Elementary School, played Joseph. The robe is
passed on from the person who received it last to the actor (an upperclassman)
who the last recipient thinks has contributed most to the show and to the
department. This passing-on is accompanied by reading from the journal that goes
along with the robe and usually a great deal of ocular discharge -- it is considered a
magnificent and solemn honor to receive this token of esteem from one's peers.
Our original robe was retired in 1991 to the glass case in the auditorium -- take a
look at it sometime. The SMNW gypsy robe has belonged to: --well, a lot of
people, but we are only going to name a few of the latest ones here.
Eric Fillmore--Once Upon a Mattress-2010
Connor Haley--The Man Who Came to Dinner-2011
Mike Allen and Claire Martin-- Les Misérables- 2011
Tanner Rose-Cabaret -2011
Trey Edwards-Night Must Fall-2012
Nick Coyan-Black Comedy and The Real Inspector Hound-2012
Gabby Rehor—Thoroughly Modern Millie 12-13
Paige Cook –The Diviners 12-13
Mitch Nolan—The Good Doctor 12-13
Elizabeth Brooks-Anything Goes 13-14
Emily Robison-Crimes of the Heart 13-14
Kristoph Gies-Dames at Sea 13-14
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Ben Huddleston-The Night of January 16 13-14
"But what about those dedicated, hard-working
techies?" you ask. I was just getting to that. The Golden Hammer is
the equivalent of the Gypsy Robe except that it’s for techies. Passed on
from peer to peer along with a journal, it is an honor given to the hardestworking, most dedicated upperclassman techie during a show. This award
began in 1994: Here are a few of the ones you might know.
Connor Stultz-Cabaret-2011
Savannah Bell-Night Must Fall-2012
Heather Jackson-Black Comedy and The Real Inspector Hound-2012
Krista Hill-Thoroughly Modern Millie 12-13
Amanda Gerber –The Diviners 12-13
Gabby Rehor—The Good Doctor 12-13
Emily Young-Anything Goes 13-14
Jesse Black- Crimes of the Heart 13-14
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Emily Robison-The Night of January 16 13-14
The Silver Baton:
“Whew!” That’s a really long list, I’m glad
it’s over...” you exclaim.
Oh, but there’s even more thespian fun. The silver baton award, contrived
by Ms. Rodgers and Mr. Bishop, is equal to the Gypsy Robe and the
Golden Hammer, (yes, there is actually a silver baton!). It and a journal
are passed from pit member to pit member for outstanding contribution. It
is given during the fall musical and sometimes the spring Repertory
musical. Past recipients include:
Spencer Merryfield—Paint Your Wagon—2009-10
Sara Kuenzi — Once Upon a Mattress — 2010-11
N/A – 2011-12
Kaitlin Neil—Thoroughly Modern Millie 2012-13
Kelly Sharpe-Anything Goes 2013-2014
any concerns. After every show, at strike, they will work with the stage
manager to maintain the same organizational system in the scene shop all
year and for years to come.
The Ruby Slipper:
When you wake up and realize a grave injustice may have been done, you
“Hey, what about the dancers?…let’s not forget
those hard-working hoofers!!” We have an answer for
say,
everything. Therefore: the Ruby Slipper is an award given twice a year to
the most outstanding dancer in a musical production. This award is
presented during the fall musical and the spring repertory musical.
Choreographer, Dianne Dickenson, started this award in 2001. Slipper
recipients lately are:
Betzy Castellon—Paint Your Wagon—2009-10
Hailey Esch —Once Upon a Mattress—2010-11
Tanner Rose—Cabaret—2011-12
Amanda Gerber –Thoroughly Modern Millie 2012-13
Elizabeth Brooks-Anything Goes 2013-2014
“So, who represents the interests of the everyday
kid in the hall kind of Thespian?”
Class Representatives, that’s who. They attend meetings once a month or
so and keep the rest of the troupe updated on what is going on. They help
with projects as needed. Since they won’t be elected until Kick-off Meeting,
one of them could be you.
Freshmen Rep
Matt Robison
Junior Rep
Megan Dunn
Sophomore Rep
Jonathan Alexander
Senior Rep
Ryllie Quesada
“Anybody else have a responsible job we should
know about?”
Why, yes, now that you mention it… There will be four Assistant
Technical Directors elected at the beginning of the year at the ice cream
social kick-off meeting. The ASM’s shall be solely responsible for the
organization of one of the following: lights, props, costumes, or the scene
shop. These four people will attend thespian officer meetings once a
month with the class representatives to discuss progress, future plans and
Lights ASM
Props ASM
Sound ASM
Reggie Black
Cody O’Connor
Zach Vielhauer
Costumes ASM
Scene Shop ASM
Lysle Hartnett
Adam Baughman
Strike :
Another audience leaves charmed, delighted, and immensely impressed
by our precocious and overwhelming theatrical abilities on the last night of
the show. All that energy has to go somewhere -- why not strike? After all,
there are sets to dismantle, scene shops to clean, dressing rooms to
swamp out, and costumes to be captured, pinned, and classified.
Everyone involved in the show ("What, EVERYONE?” you ask. Yes
EVERYONE), and any other saint who wants to help, is assigned a task.
When that task is done, everyone helps everyone else until the entire place
is spotless and monkey-free. Then we all meet for roll call and dismissal.
"But what if I still have an ounce of energy
left in my body from the thrill of weeks of
hard work paying off in three nights?"
I have two words for you:
Cast Party!
Cast Party:
"Is it mandatory?" you ask, wearily picking yourself up off
the stage, exhausted by strike. This is a difficult question. No, you are not
required to go, but, believe me, when you hear on Monday morning, how
much fun everyone else had, you'll realize that, in priority, fun sometimes
does supersede the bodily need for sleep.
We take over some lucky Thespian's house to eat and drink everything
in sight before settling down for gag gifts. It must be noted that the cast
party is not a school sponsored event, never-the-less, you are
expected to wipe your feet when you go in, not chew with your mouth
full and thank the designated parental hosts before you leave. We like
to raise polite Thespians.
Gag Gifts
hugging. Pinkie before, huggy AFTER. If you could refrain from weeping
until after the show is over that would help preserve your makeup, too.
It's the best part of the cast party, undoubtedly! During the course of a
play, someone might be caught doing something really embarrassing,
someone might say something REALLY stupid, or someone might ad lib
something weird into the show by accident. Anyhoo, it is our job as the
observer to remember it and get that person some token of their
mishap/eccentricity.
"Do I use a gift bag, or would it be better to use a nicely-wrapped
box?" you ask. I laugh. I laugh hard, and so will everyone else if you
arrive with the gift in anything nicer that an old, beat-up paper bag from HyVee. I'm not kidding. It will label you as the biggest nerd in the entire
world and you will never be able to leave the house again. Gag gifts are
very important to the cast party game, so, if you have an idea, please
participate. Personally, I have kept every gag gift I have ever received!
They make good memorabilia!
Theatre Letters
Applebee's Grill and Bar:
Opening night leaves most of us quivering with excitement and "verve."
Even though it's a school night, I can't even think about doing homework or
sleeping when I could be at Applebee's with good friends partying! Hey,
after all, they are America's Favorite Neighbor!
Fatty Fridays:
"Well, what about Friday night?" you ask. "With Applebee's
Thursday and the cast party Saturday, what do we do Friday night?"
I'm glad you asked. Our Vice President is in charge of arranging a time and
place where all of our Thespian folk can meet and chat over a feast fit for a
king. Time and place will be announced as applicable. We like Friday
feasting so well that we do it after rehearsals and not just performances.
So select Friday nights, after rehearsal, we pick a different place (close and
cheap is good) and we gather for bonding and face stuffing.
!
Qjnljf!Mpdl;!!!
Before each public performance of a SMNW show, we all congregate
until we randomly form a halfway decent circle. We lock pinkies, and the
senior chosen for that night says, "The theatre is magic, and blessed are
those who make that magic." That person squeezes his neighbor's
pinkie, and so on it goes until "The circle is complete. Everybody Break a
Leg!" Thus inspired by the energy passed between all of the cast and
crew, we are sent to our places and the show begins. P.S. The whole idea
of locking pinkies is so we don’t smear makeup on each other with
In order to letter in theatre, one must participate significantly in three
shows, so it is possible to letter one's freshman year. Your must either
have a role or work ten hours of tech. Show points carry over from year to
year. Good luck! UH, I MEAN,
BREAK A LEG.
Pictures: Hal Johnson and Rich Carver, best friends of the theatre department, take
pictures of a dress rehearsal of each show. A selection of these pictures is
displayed in the glass case in the mall (main hall, for freshmeat), and at the
Thespian Banquet. One can order copies of these pictures to keep. Go to
www.smnw2012.shutterfly.com or www.smnwhal12.shutterfly.com to order
them. These photos make great mementos and gifts for grandparents and
such. You can access earlier years by inserting 2009, 2010 or 2011 or
hal10, hal11. More info can be acquired by contacting KR or the current
Booster Club president, Janet Gerber.
Blue Star Awards:
Our participation in these awards is fairly new. Seven years ago we first
entered into the Blue Star program, held by Starlight Theatre. Basically, they send
a couple of their judges to participating schools, to watch a performance of our
musicals. They nominate shows in several categories. When the end of the
school year rolls around (probably on graduation night) the actual awards
ceremony is held at Starlight. Whomsoever wants to go may do so. Basically those
people come back and tell the rest of us what happened at the ceremony and if we
won anything. Our Blue Star Awards include:
Outstanding Chorus for Carousel ‘04
Best Ensemble for Working ‘05
Best Featured Actress, Marisa Wilson, for Working ‘05
Best Director, Keli Rodgers, for Working ‘05
Best Orchestra, for Pirates of Penzance ‘06
Best Ensemble Member, Kaitlin Mesh for Pirates of Penzance ‘06
Best Actress, Kaitlin Mesh, for Rose Alvarez, Bye Bye Birdie ‘07
Outstanding Chorus, Bye Bye Birdie, ‘07
Best Actress, Alyson Golladay for Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd ’08
Technical Achievement Scholarship Award, Sam Kendrick ‘09
Rising Star Scholarship – Savannah Bell ‘12
Outstanding Student Artistic Contribution, Elizabeth Brooks for Direction and
Choreography 14’
Rising Star Scholarship, Elizabeth Brooks 14’
Thespian Banquet and
Awards :
The
The culmination of all our hard work lies in the banquet. It's the only
proper way to close out a theatrical season! They are incredibly fun, and
anyone who doesn't go feels very left out. So come!!! Yes, there is a small
admission price, but we are talking about a semi-formal catered dinner,
hilarious slide show, Thespian awards, senior farewell, picture ordering, the
installment of next year's officers, and the announcement of the following
year's musical! It's more than worth it. Anyhoo, here are the awards that
we give out every year, as well as a list of which lucky souls received them
last year:
Outstanding Contribution of a Non-Student
Brian Huddleston
Outstanding Orchestra Member:
Kelly Sharpe
Outstanding Vocal in an Ensemble:
Rachael Birt
Ben Huddleston
Emily Robison
Fredrick Rivera
Outstanding Vocal Solo:
Elizabeth Brooks
Maggie Marx
Kristoph Gies
Outstanding Dancer in an Ensemble:
Marlee Bell
Megan Dunn
Rebecca Carroll
Cody O’Connor
Outstanding Dance Solo:
Rachael Birt
Elizabeth Brooks
Maggie Marx
Outstanding Actor in the Ensemble:
Michael Nyhart
Jonathan Alexander
Abey Lewis
Kate Brundrette
Outstanding Tech Contribution:
Lysle Hartnett
Josh Harris
Alyssa Gerber
Adam Baughman
Shannon Bartkoski
Nick Smith
Lindsey Vandergraph Bridget Lynch
Outstanding Crew Head:
Jesse Black
Rachael Carney
Marlee Bell
Fredrick Rivera
Outstanding Repertory Theatre Contribution:
First Semester: Ben Huddleston
Second Semester: Elizabeth Brooks
Outstanding Repertory Performance- First Semester:
Rachael Birt
Emily Robison
Outstanding Repertory Performance- Second Semester:
Emily Robison
Michael Nyhart
Maggie Marx
Rachael Carney
Outstanding Cameo Performance:
Cody O’Connor
Jeremy Ragsdale
Emily Robison
Outstanding Assistant Director:
Camryn Coffelt
Outstanding Assistant Technical Director:
Emily Robison
Emily Young
Ryllie Quesada
Best Stage Manager:
Emily Young
Outstanding Supporting Actor:
Fredrick Rivera
Michael Nyhart
Dylan Klein
Outstanding Supporting Actress:
Ryllie Quesada
Rachael Birt
Emily Robison
Director’s Award:
Elizabeth Brooks
Best Freshman:
Olyvia Anothayanontha
President– Diana McElroy
Vice President –
Corresponding Secretary – Christi Quesada
Recording Secretary-Kathy Carney
Treasurer – Yvonne Dorsey
Website-Robin O'Connor
Sales Manager –
Bears FlowersBreak-a-legs – Bonny Parsons
Cast Dinners Publicity – Robin O’Connor
Program Ads – Bonny Parsons
Best Newcomer:
Adam Baughman
Best Actor:
Kristoph Gies
Best Actress:
Elizabeth Brooks
Greg Parker Memorial
Achievement Award:
For many years, an award was given to the senior who was deemed by the
rest of the members to be the most committed, talented, and spirited
student over four years of involvement. Greg Parker was the theatre
teacher and director here at NW for seventeen years from 1973 to 1991.
The award bears his name ever since his death in 1991. The following are
the past recipients:
Luke Meyer-2011
Savannah Bell – 2012
Gabby Rehor – 2013
Emily Robison-2014
Thespian Booster Club:
'98 was the first year our troupe was blessed with a booster club. We
have benefited greatly from their efforts and we extend many thanks for
their hard work and dedication. As a troupe, we are looking forward to
what the club can continue to accomplish this year. The Booster Club
officers are as follows:
“Do you people have a web site or Facebook page?”
Glad you asked! We have both. Web address is:
www.smnwtheatre.com
Facebook page is Thespian Troupe #888.
www.facebook.com/thespiantroupe888
WE ALSO TWEET!
Follow us @Troupe888
“What about the theatre classes? Which ones
should I take? Are they as weird as the
thespians?”
Well, that all depends. Here’s a description, but keep in mind,
we take our art very seriously around here.
Drama -- full year:
This class teaches the fundamentals of acting and focuses on basic
acting technique. It briefly studies the history of drama and musical theatre
as art forms. It also provides a practice time for improvisational and sceneacting skills and allows students to dabble in stagecraft.
Actor's Studio -- one semester:
This is the second step. One must have basic knowledge and basic
acting experience to excel in this class. The actor works out his personal
trouble spots in order to better his own skills. This class enables students
to better understand the workings of a scene and introduces them to the
world of classical scenes and monologues. Acting theory is introduced with
an emphasis on Stanislavsky and Stella Adler.
Technical Theatre-- one semester:
This class focuses on the technical aspects of theatre. Tech students
learn the basics of construction, lighting, and sound. Design is
emphasized.
Repertory Theatre -- one semester at a time:
This class requires the ability to utilize all theatrical skills that have been
learned in previous years, as students produce plays drawing from the
resources of their fellow classmates (not open auditions). Students are
also introduced into the wonderful, and often messy, world of stage
makeup and the art of directing.
Advanced Repertory Theatre -- one semester at a time:
For students who have already experienced Rep. Theatre, Advanced
Rep. gives students the opportunity to produce and direct plays with other
highly experienced thespians.
“So, if I wanted to become one of these crazy
Thespian types, how would I go about it?”
You should start by beginning to accumulate Thespian points. Here’s how
the point system works: You start out as a Wanna-Be. One becomes a
Wanna-Be when he/she accumulates one or more, but no greater than
twenty, points. For more info on points, check the poster in the Little
Theatre (its big) or talk to one of your clerks. If you're really desperate
(and understandably afraid of the clerks) you could ask any of the other
officers, but we might not be of much help. So just check the poster or the
website. Now, on to levels of Thespian-dom!!
Wanna-Be -- Less than 20 points
Inductee -- 20-29 points
One Star -- 30-39 points
Two Star -- 40-49 points
Three Star -- 50-75 points
Four Star -- 76-100 points
Honor Bar -- 101-200 points
Double Honor Bar -- 200+ points
So, who are the current Thespian types, do I
already know any of them and do any of them
want to give me a ride?
Yes, a lot of them will give you a ride. Don’t be afraid to ask!
I don’t know if you know any of them or not, sorry, there is only so much a
handbook can do. The ride part all depends on their access to a car, but if they
have the ability, don’t be afraid to go ahead and ask.
(DRUMMMMMRRRRRRROLLLLL)
Thespian Calendar
(so far) 2013-2014:
Little Shop of Horrors
...Oct.30-Nov.
1
You Can’t Take it With You…Feb. 12-14
_________________.......April 3-5
(write Rep. show here)
_________________…...April 23-25
(write spring show here)
Alumni on their NW Theatre Experience “I didn't start doing theatre stuff till my sophomore year and I really regret not
starting my freshman year. Theatre was like my second family. I wasn't an actor, I
was a techie, but it was still awesome! Working backstage I saw more of the show
than any audience member will ever experience and I will always love having those
great memories. I learned from Mama T "I didn't say it would be easy, I said it
would be worth it". I miss SMNW Theatre. :')” –Mike Hanus ‘10
“When I discovered SMNW's wonderful theatre department, it was like opening a
door to a whole new world for me. Without it I probably would not be able to handle
going to college next semester or even moving out of the house. I owe most of my
open-mindedness and acceptance to our theatre department. It was through
theatre that I was exposed to real life and real issues. Theatre has given me the
opportunity to be my own person.” --Katie Wolff '01 Former Rep. to KU Student
Legislative Awareness Org. and current Assistant to Health & Human Services Sec.
Kathleen Sebelius
“The theatre program provided me with all of the tools I needed to better myself,
tools such as integrity, leadership skills, the ability to excel in a group setting, trust,
and above all, passion.” --Kevin Hager ’00 Former Director, KU Center for
Community Outreach Currently running a non profit in NYC
“The theatre education SMNW gave me more than prepared me for my college
theatre classes. In many cases what I learned from you was better than what my
college professors taught. The quality of Northwest productions was and is of the
highest caliber. The level of professionalism you demand is higher than the
standards set by my college professors. I am currently student teaching at Joplin
High School where the enrollment is close to that of Northwest, at least at the time I
attended. My cooperating teacher was amazed, impressed and shocked when I
told her how many shows you produce per year and how many Thespian members
you have. Thank you for the wonderful education you gave me.”
--Amy Simmons ’97 Theatre Teacher and Radio Personality
“Being a part of Thespians not only gave me the chance to grow in theater but
socially as well. I had an instant family, friends who have lasted past graduation.
Being a part of the drama dept. gave me more confidence in myself not only to be
comfortable with who I am, but also allowed me the freedom to explore who I could
become.” --Amy Wedel ’92 Sound Supervisor, Dallas Theatre Center
“During my time as a student at Northwest, I became heavily involved in the theatre
department. I never knew that one activity could so become part of who I am. The
life skills, like discipline and cooperation, that I learned as part of Thespian Troupe
#888 are carried with me every day, into every new situation.”
-- Katie (Mangelsdorf) Kring, ’96 National Merit Scholar / professional artist / mom
“Thespian Troupe #888 taught me to get off my butt and go get the things in life
that I want. They're not going to just come knocking on my door. Theatre opened
me up and taught me that it was okay to speak my mind. The department gave me
a vast amount of confidence, which enabled me to get past seeking validation from
others. It helped me become a better performer, but more importantly, transformed
me into a better human being.”
--Christopher Ayres ‘99 graphic designer and professional actor
“The bonds formed with other Thespians were absolutely amazing!! There is hardly
a bond that strong with a group of people anywhere in life, and we had that all the
time. We got to know each other so well that we could finish each other’s
sentences. It was an incredibly positive experience.” --Scott Cady, MD ’94
“Theatre helped me learn responsibility, and team work. It allowed me to feel the
satisfaction of accomplishment. I tell my younger relatives and friends to take
theatre not only because it’s fun but because it will help shape them as people.”
--Mark Daniel Krull Jr. ’97 KU
“I’ve never experienced a high like I have on stage. It releases any worries of my
world. It allows me to concentrate my energy and mind in a different way than even
sports can. I have enjoyed high school and participated in many groups
throughout, but none can compare to theatre.” --Jake Brown ‘96
“I believe the theatrical training I received here at NW will ultimately be one of the
most beneficial areas of knowledge I have, no matter what field I decide to go into.
I’ve gained … problem solving skills, an ability to cooperate in group situations and
a desire to learn from everything that happens to me.”
--Carrie Shanafelt ’97 National Merit Scholar
“In the past four years I have really grown as a person. I am not afraid to take
initiative and to take control. I’m not as self-conscious as I once was, and I’m not
afraid to face the future. I credit it all to you and this marvelous department.”
--Amy Simmons ’97 Theatre Teacher and Radio Personality
“NW theatre prepared me so well that I’m way ahead of a lot of people in my acting
class at KU. I already know the material.” --Katie Hartman ’02 KU & NMU
“Drama class kind of freaked me out. It was so different than other classes. It
changed my mentality about life. After taking Drama, I found that you have to live
in the real world and not some place where people tell you what to think. It shows
you to somehow respect other people more. I would definitely recommend this
class to other people.” --Mike Smith ‘96
“Theatre was more rewarding than anything else I did in high school.” --Breana
Sheffler ’01 Miss Topeka 2004
“I couldn't have asked for a better start. SMNW theatre is really, truly, I swear on
my life, the only reason that I am in college.” --Jaime Blum ’00 KU
“Theatre forces you to get outside yourself. You learn to understand other people
by playing characters. I gained confidence and discovered who I am, who I want to
be, by learning more about who other people are.”--Heidi Ruhnke ’03 KU
“I graduated from Northwest as Thespian president, NHS Vice President, an
editor of Penpoint, a National Merit Scholar, a member of two top choirs and an
honor roll student. Out of all these activities and honors, that which has had the
biggest effect on me is without question my time in Northwest theatre. I was lucky
enough to find it as a freshman and benefited immeasurably over my four years.
Theatre is a special environment because it is very personal, causing its
participants to draw from their very souls to create, to the best of their ability, an art
that they love. Because of this, it is the perfect environment to grow up in, as I have
witnessed time and time again. Many people enter high school scared to death of
rejection and not fitting in. Luckily, some of those people, like myself, find their way
into a show or a drama class. They are then encompassed in a world full of people
with so much love to give who love having good, clean fun and bringing everyone
else along. It's not a social organization, per se, but the lessons in interpersonal
communication and how to get along with a wide variety of people are very
prevalent in NW theatre.
Besides the inherent life lessons, NW theatre also teaches many of the career
skills other classes teach, but in a much more applicable way that students deeply
care about. From my time in the Thespian Troupe, my leadership skills were
astoundingly refined, I worked first hand with visual design and the field of
marketing, did construction and technology work, and coordinated numerous
events involving many people and ideas. This is outside of the obvious acting work,
which I am still heartliy pursuing after graduating with a 4.0 acting major from the
University of Oklahoma. Just like me, most theatre students don't just do theatre,
but instead contribute in many ways to the community at Northwest. Many of our
own officers are officers of other organizations and most of our students are
involved heavily in NW life. This excitement for life and to do and take charge of
many things has its roots in the attitude the theatre department instills. That is a
quality which is hard to find, and therefore very valuable. The SMNW theatre
department has a huge benefit to all who care to join and I would encourage great
support from the school and its administration for this very enriching organization.”
--Aubrey Brown ’00 National Merit Scholar and professional actress
“I used to end shows relieved. I couldn’t wait to be done. I’d stand on the stage
during strike and promise myself I’d never come back. But I always did.
Tonight, I will stand on the stage and wish time would freeze. Because this time
there can be no coming back. Not for real. Not the same. Now that I want to stay,
it is suddenly time to leave. I know I got into this game late. I know there are so
many of you who are more deeply tied to this place, who have more memories
here, who experienced more, who were more involved. I am ever jealous of you,
and I understand that what I feel now must be only the tip of the iceberg for you.
But please indulge me, and allow me a moment to say good-bye.
To say good-bye to the place where I learned trying involves not giving up. To the
place where I learned you have to stand up for yourself. To the place where I
learned you cannot run from your passions. To the place where I learned that
family accepts you for better or for worse, and always welcomes you back with
open arms.
I love you all so dearly, I cannot thank you in a way that will encompass all the
ways you all have touched and changed my life. I won’t even try, because I can’t
have these tattoos run. I only wish I could have gotten here sooner, could have
known you sooner, could have let these bonds form stronger, could have been as
big a part of your lives as you have been of mine.
We say “The theatre is magic and blessed are those who make that magic.” You
all make that magic, but I am the blessed one, because I have spent even this little
time among you. I love you forever, I am a better person because of you.”
Love, Catherine Barrett “08
The Constitution of Shawnee Mission
Northwest High School Thespian Troupe #888
Article I: Purposes
Section 1. The Preamble
We, the thespians of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School, in order to
form a more efficient troupe, promote the theatre arts, ensure troupe
tranquility, provide for the common defense and promote a positive atmosphere for creativity, do ordain and
establish this constitution for Thespian Troupe #888.
Section 2. The mission of this organization is to promote the theatre arts
and the principles they teaches:
A. cooperation
B. empathy and tolerance
C. self-motivation
D. perseverance
E. acceptance of criticism and praise
F. respect
G. personal growth
Article II: Underclassmen
Section 1. We, as a troupe, do hereby dedicate ourselves to the inclusion of
underclassmen and new thespians in general, and to making them feel comfortable in becoming part of the
organization. Our tools to encourage this include the Freshman Workshop, Troupe Handbook, and general
troupe attitude.
Article III: Obligations
Section 1. We encourage anyone who is interested in theatre to come and give his or her time and
energy. However, not doing what you have committed yourself to do will not be tolerated. For example,
not working for a crew when you signed up for one, not completing your tech hours for a show, dropping
out of a crew/cast, etc.
Section 2. It is every cast and crew member's responsibility to complete the designated amount of
technical work AND attend strike. This does not mean just show up--everyone is required to actually work.
Article IV: Spreading the Arts
Section 1. This theatre department is dedicated to exposing the community of
Northwest High School and the surrounding feeder elementary and middle
schools to the theatre arts.
Section 2. By producing shows, we also dedicate ourselves to spreading the
arts throughout the community of Shawnee Mission, Kansas and beyond.
Article V: Casting
Section 1. Directors, student directors, and guest directors all reserve
the right to cast shows in whatever manner they think will produce the
highest-quality show possible.
Section 2. Roles are not "given"; they are earned. The following are the
factors all directors at Northwest will consider:
A. Quality of audition
B. Age (upperclassmen do have a slight edge.)
C. Previous exhibition of responsibility. Are you always on task, and do you always finish the
job given to you by the deadline? Are you always on time to rehearsal?
D. Physical appearance. Do you fit the character type? Would your physical appearance blend
or contrast as necessary with the others being considered? NW is committed to colorblind
casting.
E. Experience
F. Dedication to the department. Do you participate in Thespians? Do you give your time to
the tasks that are not so much fun but necessary to the smooth functioning of the troupe?
Article VI: Facilities Section 1. Northwest has been blessed with very nice theatrical facilities. Because
we have the privilege of using them, it is our responsibility to care
for them. We are responsible for the condition of the Parker Auditorium,
Little Theatre, the choir room, the dressing rooms, backstage, and any other space we use during the year.
We are also responsible for the care
of furniture and other properties we use. Needless to say, we are not the
only students who use these places, but no thespians will damage them
in any way.
Section 2. Fire safety backstage will be monitored as it is the troupe's responsibility to maintain this.
Article VII: Traditions
Section 1. The Gypsy Robe and Golden Hammer are prestigious awards passed on from the previous
recipient to the person who is thought to have contributed most to the show AND to the department. This
person must be an upperclassman selected by the past recipient. The Gypsy Robe is for actors and The
Golden Hammer is for technicians. The Golden Hammer and Gypsy Robe shall be awarded three times per
year during each of the mainstage productions.
Section 2: In 1999, the Silver Baton was added to this list for outstanding orchestral contribution of a senior
to the NW theatre. In 2001 the Ruby Slipper was added as an award to recognize outstanding contribution
in dance and/or choreography. The Silver Baton and Ruby Slipper shall be awarded twice each year
during the fall mainstage musical and during the spring Repertory musical. Recipients should be upper
classmen. The baton will be passed on by the current pit orchestra conductor. The slipper will be passed
by the current recipient or choreographer.
Section 3. The catwalks above Parker Auditorium are only to be written in by
the current senior class. This is a privilege, not a right, and it will be
taken away if non-seniors write in them or abuse them in any way.
Article VIII: Inductions
Section 1. Any "wannabe" thespian who has earned 20 thespian points and is active in the NW troupe will
be inducted into the troupe as soon as he/she has paid thespian dues.
Section 2. Inductions are held twice a year, at the end of each semester.
This is a private ceremony and no non-members will be allowed to observe. It
is the class representatives' job to monitor this.
Article IX: Thespian Conferences
Section 1. Any point-holding thespian who brings in the appropriate
paperwork and money by the appointed deadline is hereby free to attend any
conference. This does, however, depend on the number of sponsors we have
available. If not enough sponsors are found, the latest to turn in their information will be cut if they cannot
provide an additional sponsor.
Article X: Voting & Nominations
Section 1. Only thespians who have achieved the ranking of three stars or
above will be permitted to have their names placed in nomination or vote for the Greg Parker Memorial
Achievement Award.
Section 2. To vote for the Repertory Theatre performance and contribution awards, one must fit one of the
following entire sets of qualifications:
A. Must be enrolled in the rep. class for a given semester,
successfully been a part of one of the rep shows, and must have seen all the other rep.
productions for that semester.
B. Must have been an out-of-class cast (not crew) member of a rep. show for the given
semester and must have seen all other rep productions that semester.
Section 3. Anyone who has a minimum of one thespian point and attends the spring voting meeting may
vote for Best Freshman and Thespian Officers. Absentee ballots may be used at descretion of sponsor.
Section 4. To have your name put in nomination for Best Freshman, a freshperson must have a minimum
of 20 Thespian points and/or be an inducted Thespian.
Article XI: Lettering
Section 1. To letter in theatre, a thespian must have made a significant
contribution to all three mainstage shows. A significant contribution is designated as either A or B below:
A. Perform in the show and complete five hours of technical work.
B. Work on a crew for the show, contributing a minimum of ten hours of technical work.
Section 2. One may letter with any combination of crews and onstage work.
Section 3. Shows carry over from year to year. For example, if you
significantly contribute to one show your freshman year and two your
sophomore year, you letter. Once those three shows have gone towards a
letter, you start back at zero.
Article XII: Dance Candidates
Section 1. Any inducted senior of the troupe who has not already been nominated by another activity is
automatically a nominee for Thespian candidate for Homecoming Queen/King, Queen of Courts/Big Man
on Campus, and Prom Queen/King. Anyone with a minimum of one point may vote for the Thespian
nominees. We will follow the Spirit Club rules for nominations and re-nominations.
Article XIII: Troupe Leadership
Section 1. The troupe membership shall elect a team of officers every spring election day. Anyone who
has been inducted into the troupe (even if it is on the very day of the elections), attends the designated
officer information meeting (if possible) prior to the elections, and is available for Monday night meetings
from 6-9pm may run. Every candidate is entitled to a normal paper-sized resume on the troupe's callboard.
Candidates run for officer, not for a specific office. The Thespian Troupe sponsor places the top ten vote
getters in the positions in which he/she thinks they will function the most efficiently.
Section 2. Officers are required to attend 85 percent of the weekly meetings, complete their designated
tasks, help plan all thespian events and attend all events unless other arrangements are made to the
satisfaction of the sponsor and officer board ahead of time. FAILURE TO FULFILL OFFICER
RESPONSIBILITIES CAN RESULT IN IMPEACHMENT.
Section 3. The membership elects class representatives at the Ice Cream
Social held at the beginning of the year. Two people from each class will be selected for a total of eight.
These reps will be required to attend an officer meeting once a month (the day decided on by the officers
and reps in advance) to help with special event planning, troupe-officer relations, and other projects. They
also shadow the officers to learn more about the way the board works. Failure to attend two meetings
without prior approval will result in impeachment proceedings.
Section 4. If an officer fails to perform a part of his or her duty, the board will discuss impeachment. If the
majority of the board votes to remove that officer, a class representative will be asked to take over the
office. The open position of an officer who resigns will be subject to the same procedure. The officers, the
Thespian sponsor and the Technical Director will select the new officer at their discretion.
Section 5. The ten specific officer positions are as follows:
A.
President-responsible for organizing and running officer meetings and the doings of the
troupe. The president must come with a prepared agenda for every meeting and ensure
that other officers meet their deadlines.
B. Vice President-responsible for maintaining a calendar on the
callboard of upcoming theatrical events (school, community, and professional). The V.P. keeps
the callboard updated, functions as
liason to the class reps. and helps the president in any way requested. The V.P. is also
responsible for the organization of the trip to the State/National Thespian Conventions.
C. Secretary-responsible for troupe correspondence and the Thespian Handbook. The
handbook is to be compiled, typed, and edited by the secretary during the summer preceding
his or her term of office. The secretary contacts people, informing them of our events (like
Freshman Workshop) and writes thank you notes, etc. when appropriate. The secretary also
keeps minutes of all meetings.
D. Treasurer-responsible for the finances of the troupe. The treasurer keeps the books for all
theatre accounts, writes purchase orders, handles deposits and all money collection for the
troupe, turns in receipts, and deals with the school bookkeeper.
E. Clerk 1-calculates thespian points and posts updated lists on the callboard at least after
every show. Clerk 1 also handles inductions, i.e. notifies those with 20 or more points, assigns
"parents", and is responsible for the membership sheets getting mailed to the International
Thespian Society.
F. Clerk 2-responsible for maintaining the points wall in the Little Theatre- updating it as often
as the point list is updated. Clerk 2 also handles the marquee.
G. Stage Manager-responsible for keeping stage and scene shop clean and fire safe! The
Stage Manager also handles all events that come through Parker Auditorium such as the
Fashion Show, concerts, dance recitals, etc.
H. Publicist-responsible for publicizing all NW theatre events, i.e. shows, Improv Night,
Masquerade Ball, etc. The publicist does this through posters, the morning announcements,
newspapers, the mall banner, sandwich boards, etc.
I. Historian-responsible for all the pictures of our shows. This includes the pictures and
negatives, picture orders, printing, picture money, and the troupe slideshow. Prepares
scrapbook and/or displays for Thespian convention competition along with dramaturge.
J. Dramaturge-responsible for researching shows and keeping a troupe scrapbook. The
dramaturge finds and preserves all newspaper clippings puts them in our scrapbooks. They
also do appropriate research on the authenticity, author, historical significance, costuming, etc.
of every mainstage show.