Graland Students Shine at Colorado Thespian Conference
19 Graland Middle School students in Grades 6-8 recently participated in the Colorado Thespian Conference, showcasing their impressive theatrical talents and earning high praise for their performances.
Among them, Sarah Paige S., Stella B., and Maggie S. stood out in the "individual event" category, where they performed the title song from "Little Shop of Horrors" by Alan Menken. Their dynamic rendition earned a "Superior" rating from industry professionals, qualifying them for the International Thespian Festival.
Colorado Individual Events and the National Thespys are part of an educational program designed to give conference delegates the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on prepared theatrical material and technical designs. The program helps students grow by providing feedback on their skills, strengths, and areas for improvement. Those who score “Superior” ratings in their categories qualify to advance to the final round of adjudication at the International Thespian Festival. During this round, students present their work again, incorporating feedback from previous rounds, with the highest-scoring students in each category receiving Thespy Awards.
Colorado Individual Events and the National Thespys are part of an educational program designed to give conference delegates the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on prepared theatrical material and technical designs. The program helps students grow by providing feedback on their skills, strengths, and areas for improvement. Those who score “Superior” ratings in their categories qualify to advance to the final round of adjudication at the International Thespian Festival. During this round, students present their work again, incorporating feedback from previous rounds, with the highest-scoring students in each category receiving Thespy Awards.
The judges at the conference were particularly impressed with the students’ choreography, vocal harmony, and stage presence. One judge remarked, “Excellent choreography and working with each other. Physical energy was spot on. Nice storytelling skills and keeping the song alive and exciting. Wonderful work!!! Bravo!!!” Another judge noted, “Great slate. Nice harmony. Love the dance and blocking, so cute! Strong vocals, and you kept up the energy the whole time. Make sure you smile; you should be proud of your work. It was great. Well done!!”
Congratulations to Sarah Paige, Stella, and Maggie on their impressive achievement, and we look forward to seeing where their passion for theater takes them next!
A special thanks to Graland Drama Teachers, Julie Lachance and Dan O'Neill, who serve as the troupe leaders for these Middle School students - Thespian Troupe 11281. Their guidance and encouragement have been invaluable to the students' success.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
