The following is an interview by senior reporter Molly Thamrong and junior Benjamin Neller, president of The BMHS Thespian Troupe and NJ State Thespian Officer. The two sat down to discuss the recent Thespy Award Ceremony.
What is the International Thespian Society?
The International Thespian Society, in simple terms, is the honor society for students of theatre. ITS recognizes, rewards, and encourages student achievement and celebrates the work of students both in performance and production. They provide many opportunities, including scholarships and several programs, and host the Thespy competition every year.
How many members are involved?
There are 19 members in Brick Memorial Troupe, which is Troupe 3411. These include Gavin Bailey, Jenna Barry, Faith Cawley, Miles Dawson, Clark Demarest, Emily Farrell, Craig Fitzgerald, Kelly Fitzgerald, Ava Hansen, Skylar Hillin, Amanda Jimenez, Brody LaVallee, Daniel Marks, Kye Moraghan, Bryanna Morales, Benjamin Neller, Bella Nunziate, Samantha Ritacco, and Emily Wojciak.
What is your title? What do you do?
Along with being the President of Troupe 3411, I serve as an NJ State Thespian Officer (STO). The STOs are the student voice of the organization. We spend much of the year planning the State Thespian Festival and traveling to represent New Jersey Thespian on a National Level. I was also able to lead a workshop entitled the “Troupe Officer Roundtable.” I talked to troupe officers throughout the state and discussed how to bring success to each of their schools.
What awards were presented?
Ms. O’Brien was named the 2022-2023 New Jersey Thespian’s Outstanding Educator of the Year. This recognition honors the hard work and dedication of a deserving adult who exemplifies the best qualities of an Educational Theatre Teacher. The nominee for this award will represent the best practices of Theatre Educators striving to bring quality theatre experiences to their building, district, and community.
What was the ceremony like?
At the closing ceremony, the State Board announced several awards, including the adult awards, scholarships, honor troupe awards, and the Thespy results. Our troupe was awarded the Gold Honor Troupe Award, the highest recognition in the state. At the NJ festival, there were just over 800 students in attendance. They came from 41 different schools throughout the state.
Thank you so much! Other than amazing productions, any other big news from the Thespian Society or Drama Club?
Yes! Most recently, Troupe 3411 continued its annual tradition of participating in the “Treat or Treat so Kids Can Eat” program. We partnered with the Manasquan Food Pantry in October and collected 769 pounds of food.
Congratulations! And thank you for taking the time to talk to us!
