Students from Comox Valley Schools recently had outstanding performances at the North Island Regional Drama Festival in Campbell River.
Comox Valley Schools will be represented at the National Theatre ABCDE Provincial Drama Festival for the second consecutive year, following G.P. Vanier鈥檚 phenomenal performance at the North Island Regional Drama Festival. The school鈥檚 production of Trap by Stephen Gregg, directed by Lori Mazey, was selected as the outstanding production, with Nanaimo鈥檚 NDSS finishing as runner-up.
G.P. Vanier also earned accolades in several categories including acting, ensemble work, stage management, directing, costume co-ordination, and lighting design. While awards are not the sole motivation for students, the recognition was an honour, reflecting their commitment to excellence in theatre arts.
Highland Secondary School鈥檚 Scent of Honeysuckle, directed by Lisa Williams, was another highlight, bringing the audience to tears with its powerful narrative and performances. The school won awards for directing and other theatrical aspects, with actors Ava Bayers, Gisella Parsons, and Olivia Parsons recognized for outstanding achievement in acting.
Mark R. Isfeld Secondary, under the guidance of teacher Peter Spencer, participated as delegates this year, marking their return to the festival after several years.
Their involvement this year has sparked enthusiasm for a more active role in future festivals.
The festival, hosted by Carihi and Timberline in Campbell River, featured workshops, a fringe festival, and evening competitive plays. It attracted nearly 200 students from Campbell River to Nanaimo, offering an enriching experience in theatre education.
Students from the participating schools shared their experiences, with Vanier鈥檚 Grayson Collins describing the event as an inspiring weekend of learning and sharing. Imogen Ignatiuk called it 鈥渦nbelievably fun and inspiring,鈥� while Jasmin Rosner described it as 鈥渢errifyingly beautiful.鈥�
G.P. Vanier will present Trap in the multi-purpose room of the school on Jan. 13 and 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door, with proceeds aiding the cast and crew鈥檚 trip to the provincial festival in New Westminster in May.
The North Island Regional Drama Festival serves as a platform for theatre programs to display their creative work and learn from peers and professionals.
It features a professional adjudication process, providing valuable feedback for artistic, performance, and technical development.
