Woodhaven, MI – The Woodhaven Theatre Company (WTC) and the Play Production class have once again demonstrated their excellence, securing their third straight state championship and their fourth title in the last five years at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association (MIFA) One-Act Theatre State Finals.
Competing at Wayne State University last weekend, WTC’s performance of The Price earned the highest honor, winning 1st Place in Main Stage Division 1. The WTC performance of The Price marks the Michigan premiere production of a new play by Don Zolidis. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Story of a Mother, The Price follows a grieving mother’s harrowing journey through time and fate as she encounters mysterious forces that challenge her resolve, ultimately forcing her to confront the depths of love, sacrifice, and the true cost of loss.
Beyond the top award, the company also received numerous accolades, showcasing excellence in technical execution, stage presence, and sportsmanship:
Golden Truck Award (Best Load In/Out)
Black Gaffe Award (Best Backstage Execution)
John Fitzgerald Class Act Award (Recognizing outstanding behavior, courtesy, and kindness)
People’s Choice Award, as voted by participating schools
In addition, WTC students earned multiple individual and ensemble awards:
Superior Ratings:
Aliya DeJesus – The Mother (Acting)
Full Cast (16) – Acting Ensemble & Physical Acting
Cooper Fondaw & Bella Newman – Student Directors
Charlie Palencar, Peyton Huddleston, Jonathan Padgett, Sage Wilson, Raul Lopez, Zander Stec, Mackenzie Whitman, Samantha Syverson – Set Construction & Painting
Company Awards – Physical & Vocal Characterization, Overall Tech, Set/Lights/Costume/Makeup, Stage Mechanics, and Script Execution
Excellent Ratings:
Harper Clemons, Joshua Dauzy, Collin Devins, Emmalyn Pinnegar – Lighting Execution
Jayla Allen, Caspian Burke – Properties
Zaria Williams – Costume Crew Head
Cosmo Estrada, Josephine Clemons, Abby Hughes, Giada Muti – Costume Crew
Company Awards – Tempo/Pacing
Adding to the celebration, Michael Clemons was honored with the prestigious Bob Koger Award, and Woodhaven’s Theatre Director was recognized as the 2024-25 Michigan Theatre Teacher of the Year.
"Our students were amazing throughout the entire experience. Their commitment and artistry was incredible. The level of competition from around the state was formidable, and to achieve a nearly clean sweep of the state awards was surreal. These kids deserve every bit of recognition. They were dedicated, worked hard, and earned it," said Clemons.
Woodhaven-Brownstown School District Superintendent Mark Greathead praised the team’s accomplishment, stating, "The success of the Woodhaven Theatre Company is a direct result of the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our students and staff. Their passion for the arts continues to inspire our entire school community, and we could not be prouder of their achievements. We are especially grateful for the leadership of Michael Clemons, whose dedication and vision have built a program that continues to thrive at the highest level. His recognition as Michigan Theatre Teacher of the Year is well deserved, and we appreciate the lasting impact he has on our students and the arts community."
The Woodhaven Theatre Company extends its gratitude to the staff and community members who attended the competition and supported the students throughout their journey.
For more information about WTC and upcoming performances, check out WTC on social media @wtcproductions or by visiting https://tinyurl.com/245rrsdu