For the third-straight year, Rowlett High School’s Eagle Theatre Company has been named a finalist in the Dallas Summer Musicals (DSM) High School Musical Theatre Awards. The talented theater group is up for nine Best of Category honors for its production of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.”
“It feels humbling to be a three-time finalist. It speaks volumes of not only our students’ dedication and talent, but also the Fine Arts faculty’s commitment to our students,” said theater director Brandon Tijerina. “We have entered the past three years and have been very blessed to have an amazing group of students each year. We train our students to have a great work ethic, and that never fails, regardless of talent.”
The Company went head-to-head with 68 other high school shows from across North Texas to become a finalist in nine out of 15 categories—which is four more nods than the group collected last year.
“It feels great and reassuring to have an increase in nominations,” Tijerina commented. “I attribute that to the collective efforts of everyone involved: our administration, teachers, students and parents.”
“I think this accomplishment is such a wonderful example of the collaboration of our theater, choir, band and dance departments,” added Principal Michelle Bounds. “Each of those groups meld into one huge effort of hard work and talent, and it is so rewarding to see each of them garner nominations.”
RHS is in the running for best all-student orchestra, choreography, direction, ensemble or chorus, lighting design, musical direction, musical and scenic design. Senior Sarah Manns is also up for best supporting actress for her rendition of Princess Puffer in the melodic play.
The High School Musical Theatre Awards contest features DSM judges who assess a production’s overall quality. Rowlett’s gifted fine arts students will find out if they receive top honors at an awards ceremony April 29 at the Music Hall at Fair Park.
For a full list of finalists, visit the competition’s website. To learn more about the Eagle Theatre Company, visit Rowlett High School’s website.
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