CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman High School Theatre program has once again proven its excellence by winning the top honor, the prestigious Best in Show award, at the Walter Trumbauer State Festival, Alabama’s premier theater competition for high schools. This win marks the third time Cullman Theatre has achieved this feat in the past 11 years. The accolade comes with an invitation to represent Alabama at the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) in Baltimore, Maryland, in March.
In addition to Best in Show, Cullman Theatre brought home a host of individual honors. This includes special awards for the One Act, “The Old Man and the Old Moon” for which Slade Turbyfield earned the Best Performer/Actor award, while the production received awards for Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design. Bailee Henderson, Jameson Inscho and Cadan Fales were named to the All-Star Cast. Highlighting the unique aspects of the production, Jill Blocher won first place in Puppet Design for her work with shadow and hand puppets used in the show. The program’s students also amassed 30 individual superior medals, with Lily Abbott achieving third place in Comedic Musical Theatre.
The state title is a high honor for Cullman Theatre and its director, Wayne Cook, who shared the significance of the achievement.
“The honor means a lot to me and these students. In Alabama, it is the highest honor you can receive in high school theater,” Cook said. “We are often validated by our community, but this is an honor bestowed upon us by those who also create and perform our craft. It means so much to be honored by your peers.”
Cook continued by praising the dedication and creativity of his students, who put in countless hours to bring the production to life.
“These kids are so talented, but they also work very hard. We put time in during school and then these students put in at least six additional hours each week to prepare for this production, not to mention hours learning lines, songs and musical instruments,” Cook said. “Our students designed the sets, puppets and were able to do all the sound effects for this show live. These students are great examples of many of the students at CHS — loyal, hardworking, creative and competitive. They are committed to being winners and therefore they are winners.”
With the invitation to SETC, Cullman Theatre now faces the challenge of raising approximately $50,000 to transport and house the students for the national festival. The program has launched a fundraising campaign, seeking support from individuals and businesses.
“We are given the opportunity to represent our city, county and our state at SETC,” Cook said. “We are looking for people to join our championship club with tickets, social media shoutouts and a year-long display in our theater championing those who support our program.”
To contribute to Cullman Theatre’s fundraising efforts or to learn more, contact Wayne Cook at wcook@cullmancats.net.
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