Varsity Theater students from Emerson High School will compete in the UIL One-Act-Play Competition on March 7, 2025 at Memorial High School for their final chance to make it to States.
Over the past few months, the Varsity Theater class has been rigorously preparing to compete in the UIL One-Act Play competition; but for seniors, it is their last chance to compete. Although the Class of 2025 will not be the first to graduate, they are the first to attend Emerson for the entirety of their high school careers. Nine of these extraordinary seniors have found their home behind the stage doors and in the classroom of the Emerson Theater Department. In addition to being core members of the department, each of these students strive for greatness in various other extracurriculars: Student council, athletics, drill and more. Not only do these seniors thrive as inspirational students, but they are also role models to their peers. Christian Lyons, 12, demonstrates the teamwork he’s learned from the football team to empower his castmates.
“It’s been a little odd having to be a leader because normally I’ve been a younger team member,” Lyons said. “Regardless of how much fun we are having, I try to remind the underclassmen to balance the fun with the hard work and remember that there’s a job to be done.”
This year, Emerson Theatre Company readily anticipates to share the story of Faustus: That Damned Woman. The play follows the tale of young Johanna Faustus as she races against time while on a troublesome journey to make a change in the world. The play highlights themes such as the roles of women, sexism, identity, redemption, morality and the simplicity of making honest mistakes, but most importantly, it reflects the interpersonal stories of these seniors’ lives, and they’re ready to share it with audiences. Troupe Secretary, Madi Mintz, 12, embodies the role of the real-life figure Elizabeth Garrett, the first female doctor in England.
“We hope that after watching the show, audiences realize how women need to be valued and recognized for their accomplishments, rather than being criticized or judged for daring to achieve ambitious goals,” Mintz said.
The plays teach students and audiences valuable lessons, but the competition is an incredible educational experience. These seniors have had the opportunity to compete in the competition for the last four years and receive individual critiques, awards, and several other acknowledgments to enhance their overall performance. Troupe President, Lauren Bazan, 12, has been competing in the One-Act-Play competition since her freshman year. This year, Bazan was challenged to take on the role of Johanna Faustus and is ready for the obstacles ahead.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned from competing in UIL is that the experience is what you make it,” Bazan said. “Depending on how much effort you put into your role and the journey, that’s how much you’ll get out of it.”
These seniors can attest that the One-Act-Play journey is not for the weak of heart or mind. It takes immense amounts of courage, passion, endurance and resilience. After an intense season last year, the Varsity Theater class was on the cusp of victory after placing alternate to state. This year, they aren’t holding back. Troupe Historian, Erin Webb, 12, has a new perspective going into this year’s competition. In fact, this new positive mentality is one of the most impactful legacies the seniors have left with the department. Despite all the chaos and stress competition season unleashes, Webb reminds us of the value of treating your castmates with kindness.
“Looking back, I would make sure to always assume positive intent. The mindset shift benefits my energy towards our work,” Webb said. “I would have cherished the time I had further connecting with everyone even deeper, ultimately allowing space to push myself further as an actress.”
The first round of competition will be held March 7 at Memorial High School where they will perform with hopes of advancing to the District Competition. By the end of the 40-minute play, Johanna Faustus ultimately realizes that although her time with the world has run out, her legacy is greater than she had ever expected. As the seniors prepare to take their final bow, they graduate assured of the legacy they’ve left.
“We’re going to state!” the seniors said.
