By Tina '27, Fiona '28, and Bryan Ringstead

Thirty students and four chaperones recently got back from the California State Thespian Festival, a three-day celebration of theater that brought together 1700 high school students at Pomona College.

Notre Dame's Thespian Troupe competed in multiple events, highlighted by being awarded the title of Honor Troupe. This lifetime achievement award is only given to one or two schools each year, honoring excellence in producing high-quality plays and musicals, commitment to outreach and community service, and a passion for spreading the love of theater arts to the community. 

This milestone reflects years of dedication and growth. Special thanks go to John Bracco and Jennifer Lotz (Gigi '26's mom) who wrote excellent letters of recommendation, and to our thespian officers (Lila '26, Ania '27, Tabitha '28, Gigi '26, Thanh '27, Clara '27, and Pragnya '27) who wrote essays showcasing the troupe's progress over the past 5 years and current successes. 

Pragnya '27, Gigi '26, Lila '26, and Courtney '26

Students also earned top honors in individual competitions. Lila '26 and Gigi '26 received  $1000 scholarships for excellence in stage and production management, and theater marketing, respectively. 

Additional recognition went to Thanh '27 and Sierra '27 for "Best of Fest" for their duet scene performed in front of 2,000 people.

Improv Spectacular Event

Below is a recap of student achievements at the festival. (Note: “Superior” is the highest rating a student can achieve in a category. Placement on Tech Crew, Opening Number, and Playworks is based on a selective pre-festival process.)