It’s awards season in the performing arts.
The Grammys were last week, the Oscars are next Sunday. Last weekend was the Iowa High School Speech Association’s All-State contest, and an ensemble from Roosevelt High School brought home some historic kudos from the competition that featured the best of the best after IHSSA districts winnowed the field.
Roosevelt won the Critics Choice in the Musical Theater category for its performance of Opening Doors from Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along.
Basically, it’s a state championship for high school performers. And like any state championship, the winners brought home a big banner to display.
“We are the only Des Moines school to have won this championship, ever,” according to Roosevelt drama teacher Micheal Davenport. “And, it’s only the second time in 40 years that Roosevelt has received this honor.”
Bravo to the performers:
- Gary McCall – 11th grade
- Kaylee Reininga – 11th grade
- Henry Vermeer –11th grade
- Pierce Mansfield –11th grade
- Jane Romp –12th grade
- Geneva Klein –12th grade
They were coached and directed by:
- Micheal Davenport (head coach)
- Artistic Director, Roosevelt Repertory Theatre
- Renee Davenport (assistant coach)
- Jackie Schmillen (assistant coach)