Plano ISD students delivered standout performances at the Texas Thespians State Festival held November 20-23, 2024, at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Hotel in Grapevine.
The event, which drew students in theater from across the state and provided them with opportunities to attend workshops, network with colleges and showcase their talents on an elite stage.
An Impressive Showing For Plano ISD
According to an official statement, Plano ISD students earned an impressive number of mainstage callbacks, a distinction reserved for participants achieving perfect scores in their individual events. Notable recognitions included performances in monologues, musical solos and group lip-syncs, reflecting the district’s broad theatrical expertise.
Plano East’s production of Lord of the Flies earned multiple awards, including best supporting performance for Lauren Oliobi, best makeup and best props. Students also received honors such as honorable mentions and all-star cast selections for their performances in the marathon show series.
Among the highlights was Gina Phan of Plano East Senior High School, who performed in the All-State Closing Ceremonies musical revue. Nicole Lee from Plano West Senior High School added to the district's accolades by clinching first place in the lip sync competition and performing during the festival's grand finale.
Additionally, Plano Senior and Plano West were recognized with the prestigious All-Star Troupe Display Award, which acknowledges excellence in community service, production history and student leadership. Two students, Loren Mediana of Plano East and Sarah Hernandez of Plano West, were also selected for the State Honor Crew, gaining hands-on production experience alongside industry professionals.
National Qualifiers For International Festival
Students from Plano East, Plano Senior High School and Plano West earned superior ratings in categories ranging from monologues and musical solos to duet and group performances, solidifying their place statewide and naming them national qualifiers for the International Thespian Festival in June 2025.
Congratulations to all the students, staff and troupes who participated in the festival. To see a complete list of winners, click here.
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