Eight Poudre High School theatre students recently earned honors at the International Thespian Festival on the campus of the University of Nebraska this summer.

The students competed in individual events in various categories including costume design, duet scenes, musical theatre, monologues, and lighting design. In addition, the students expanded their theatre experiences, participating in professional theater workshops and watching plays and musicals performed by outstanding high school programs from all over the country. They auditioned for college programs, play readings, and scholarships.

The following PHS students' individual events were rated Overall Superior: (Costume Design) Margaret Stitzel (’13), Emily Pillard (’12), (Lighting Design) Laurel Kassenbrock (’12), and (Duet Scene) Michael Cienfuegos-Baca (’12) and Rose Van Dyne (’14).

Poudre students were also recognized in the National Individual Event Showcase, a prestigious performance where only the best of the nation are invited to present their competition pieces. Michael Cienfuegos-Baca and Rose Van Dyne were selected out of hundreds of others to perform their scene “Voices.” Laurel Kassenbrock was selected for her lighting design of Poudre’s spring show, "We Will Rise" and her portfolio was displayed in the Lied Center Theatre.

Cienfuegos-Baca and Kassenbrock were selected out of hundreds of other applicants for the International Thespian Society scholarships, receiving $2000 each.

This is the third year in a row that Poudre has been recognized on the festival's Main Stage.