Welcome! all

you current, new, and future (we hope!) Thespians. You hold in your hands right now all of our secrets and traditions, plus more random pieces of relevant information than you could ever want to know about Thespian-ism. Read on.

Ladies and gentlemen: picture if you will, a place where time has no meaning, a place where spatial boundaries are overcome by mere wooden fixtures, a place where ordinary people are transformed from static creatures to fantastical playmates at your whim. Leave behind your daily grind and ho hum humanity to enter THE THESPIS ZONE….

"What in the heck is a Thespis?--one may hear you ask. One what? One thespian, hopefully, otherwise one might not be able to answer you. I, luckily for you, am a thespian. I would first correct you by saying, "Ah, but you mean who the heck is Thespis"? Then you would smack me and I would get on with it: Around 500 BC, Thespis changed drama from the form it had then to the form it has now. He, according to Greek legend, was the first man to speak independently, in other words, without the chorus, thus bringing out a single character. That is the basis for modern theatre. The Greeks also said he introduced makeup (then white lead paint -- probably very itchy) and the idea of tragedy. It is recorded on the ancient "Parian Tablet" (for all you history buffs) that around 534 B.C. Thespis was the first to produce a tragedy at Dionysus' festival. It was a major hit and everyone copied his idea. Soon everybody was writing or performing in plays, most notably at the festival of Dionysus. It is said that even the worst criminals in the area were allowed out of prison to see these plays. Wow, and to think we are still doing plays today. The way I see it, theatre must be something grand. This feeling is shared by our director, Keli Rodgers. Let's see what she has to say about it:Sunshine (that’s short for Ms. Rodgers) says: I not only feel it issomething grand, I know it is something grand. This fall, I will direct my 130th production, so I know theatre is grand, awesome, beautiful and the most difficult thing I have ever had the pleasure to be a part of. I love the theatre for many reasons, but most of all because it is such a challenge. To do theatre well is truly to achieve something valuable—valuable for the audience, the actors, the techies -- the human spirit in us all.

Department PhilosophyAs students get involved in SMNW Theatre, they often find themselves being pulled in many different directions. Being involved in theatre can be very time-consuming and I think it is important for you to know what your obligations will be as you become involved with this department. As the director, I encourage everyone who is interested in theatre to offer his or her services. The people who are more involved with the department have a slight edge when I cast, because

dedication is important, but, if you play a sport or are involved in other activities and consequently can only audition for one or two shows a year, I certainly will not penalize you for that. Experience in theatre helps, but I feel all your other activities make you a stronger actor, technician, and human being, so ultimately all you do makes you a more capable, contributing member of this department and your art. So, if you choose not to audition or cannot accept a tech position, I certainly understand. The only thing I cannot understand and will not tolerate is your acceptance of a role or tech position and then your failure to carry out your obligations. Say no, no problem. Say yes and do not follow through, and you are much less likely to be cast again.

"Will you give me a role even though I am a freshman/ a first-time actor/a nervous wreck/etc.?"

You might also be interested in my philosophy of casting. I do not "give" roles. You earn them. As directors, Mama T., Debbie Green, Mindy Moritz, Mr. Schwartz and I are primarily concerned with putting together the highest-quality show possible. Therefore, I am going to cast the people who most closely embody the characters. There are, of course, a lot of factors I consider. They include:· Quality of audition - primary decisive factor· Age (upperclassmen do have a slight edge.)· Previous exhibition of responsibility. Are you always on task, and do you always finish the job given to you by the deadline? Are you always on time to rehearsal? Do you know your lines?· Physical appearance. Do you fit the character type? Would your appearance blend in with the others being considered? (Unless a specific ethnicity is a necessary plot point, we practice colorblind casting.)· Experience· Dedication to the department. Do you participate in Thespians? Did you help raise money during the fund-raiser? I encourage everyone to audition for every show you can because 1) it displays your current level of development, 2) it helps me remember you if I don't already have you in one of my classes,

and 3) it gives you audition experience. You do not have to be cast in a show to participate. A good way to become involved is to come to tech sessions on Saturdays and some nights after school (6-9 pm.) The times are always posted outside the Little Theatre and everyone is welcome. You can come whenever you have time, stay as long as you like and sign out whenever you need to leave. You get the same amount of thespian credit as the actors do which is about 1 point for every 5 hours of work. --Keli Rodgers

"So who are all those wild and crazy people claiming to be in charge around here?"

Deborah Lee Green – Vocal Director is happy to be back at Northwest working on another musical.  Mrs. Green graduated from Northwest just after the time that dinosaurs roamed the earth.  She went on to study opera at UMKC and had a satisfying performance career, performing leading roles in the operas of Verdi, Puccini, Gounod, Mozart, Menotti, Humperdink, and Britten, as well as numerous oratorios, and appearing in solo performance with the KC Symphony, before settling into the important work of raising her three children.  She continues to perform and teaches private voice lessons.  Mrs. Green provided musical direction for past Repertory Theatre productions of The Fantastiks, Lucky Stiff, Working, Into the Woods (in which she also had the pleasure of singing The Witch), Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street , Side by Side by Sondheim, Big River, Once Upon a Mattress and Les Miserables as well as Cabaret, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Fantasticks and Gypsy. Mrs. Green would like to thank her family for supporting the time she invests in her students. 

Mindy Moritz –Choreographer Mindy graduated from SMNW in 2005. She was a Thespian officer for three years and committed almost all her time to the theatre.  Mindy has participated in over 50 musicals in the last fifteen years of her life; playing everything from chorus girl to leading lady. She has a passion to perform, but loves teaching as well. She's choreographed and directed numerous shows for CYT and other educational theatre companies. Mindy has taken dance for over 13 years. She has taught tap, jazz, ballet, and swing both traditionally and privately.  After graduating from SMNW, she was a musical theatre major in college, then recently finished at a Leadership Academy in Colorado Springs. She is delighted to be back in Kansas City choreographing for her alma mater. NW audiences may remember Mindy as Annie in Annie Get Your Gun, Rita in Lucky Stiff, Carrie Snow in Carousel, a member of the award-winning ensemble of Working, Her Mother in The

Fantasticks or as the director of Dames at Sea. She was also the choreographer for Grease!, Side by Side by Sondheim, Paint Your Wagon , Big River, Once Upon a Mattress, Les Misérables, Cabaret, Gypsy, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Anything Goes, Working, Little Shop of Horrors and The Fantasticks here at Northwest.

Tom Moss – Associate Principal for Fine Arts (and international man of mystery) We have done our homework and come up with answers to some of the questions concerning the international man of mystery whom we are happy to have as our Associate Principal for Fine Arts. Mr. Moss graduated from Southwest Missouri State with a degree in Music Ed., got a Masters from KU and, in case you were worried, an MS in Educational Administration, as well. So, even though he was the NW Band guy for 14 years until 2000, he is eminently qualified to keep a bunch of unruly Thespians in line. “The Fine Arts Department at Northwest consists of some of the finest students and teachers found anywhere. I am thrilled to have been given an opportunity to work with these fine people as NW Associate Principal.”

Keli Rodgers – Director A true visionary (so says Carrie Shanafelt-future famous author) and a disciplined director (so also says Carrie Shanafelt-still future famous author). Ms. Rodgers has directed our theatre department for going on twenty-six years now. With more than 130 productions to her directing credit, all cannot be listed, but a few of her favorites are: The Rainmaker, Arsenic and Old Lace, The Night of January Sixteenth, 42nd Street, The Foreigner, The Importance of Being Earnest, Little Shop of Horrors, Once Upon a Mattress, Crazy for You, The Last Night of Ballyhoo, Crimes of the Heart, Ten Little Indians, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, The Miracle Worker, All in the Timing, The Night Thoreau Spent In Jail, Lucky Stiff, Working, Pirates of Penzance, Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd and Big River. From Starlight Theatre’s Blue Star program, Ms. Rodgers has received four nominations for Outstanding Direction of a Musical (for Working, The Pirates of Penzance Bye Bye Birdie and Sweeney Todd). In 2007, she was thrilled to receive from her peers the Parker Award for Excellence in Teaching. Under her direction, expect to be treated like a mature professional -- you'll figure the rest out yourself.

Scot Schwartz - Vocal Music Teacher- Scot attended Baker University & graduated with a BME in 1991.  During the spring of that year, Scot student taught in Jack Ballard’s choral classroom at Northwest.  Scot began teaching in the Shawnee Mission School District at Rising Star Elementary in 1994, where he taught grades K-6 classroom music.  During his tenure at Rising Star, he wrote and directed several musical productions for his 6th grade students.  Scot was the Shawnee Mission Elementary Educator of the Year in 2004-2005, and was a nominee for Kansas Teacher of the Year and the Disney Hand Teaching Award.  He received his masters in education degree from Mid-America Nazarene University in 1997, and his ESL

endorsement from Emporia State University in 2004.  Scot finally returned to become director of choirs at Northwest in 2005, following the retirement of the infamous and beloved “Capt.” Jack Ballard.

Judy Tuckness – Technical Director Not only a superb TD, but practically a foster mother for any and all would-be "techies,” she is affectionately referred to as "Mama T." Mama T works tirelessly with her enthusiastic crew of students to ensure that sets are great, and no one gets hurt. Her work for NW includes The Mikado, Funny Girl, The Passion of Dracula, Musical Comedy Murders of 1940, The Music Man, The Rainmaker, Charley's Aunt, Anything Goes, The Night of January Sixteenth, Steel Magnolias, 42nd Street, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Foreigner, Hello, Dolly!, Harvey, Once Upon a Mattress, Little Shop of Horrors, The Crucible, Blithe Spirit, Li'l Abner, Night Must Fall, Barefoot in the Park, Grease, Guys and Dolls, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Nerd, Joseph ..., Crazy for You, Inherit the Wind, Born Yesterday, Starmites, Kiss Me, Kate, The Boys Next Door, The Good Woman of Setzuan, Pippin, Brigadoon, A Doll House, The Last Night of Ballyhoo, Molly Whuppie, How to Succeed…, Crimes of the Heart, Ten Little Indians, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Oklahoma!, The Miracle Worker, All in the Timing, The Fantastiks Carousel, The Night Thoreau Spent In Jail, You Can’t Take It With You, Lucky Stiff, Annie Get Your Gun, The Crucible, Black Comedy and The Real Inspector Hound, Working, Pirates of Penzance, Our Town, Fools, Into the Woods, Mousetrap, Grease! Paint Your Wagon, Big River, Once Upon a Mattress, The Man Who Came to Dinner, Cabaret, and Les Miserables. Mama T. would like to add: "Being a technical director is a natural extension of my creative self, allowing me to extend my artistic expression and have a great time doing it! The stage at SMNW is a big canvas to work with, but so was that three-acre pageant site I did sets for in Independence. As an art form, theatre is ever challenging; it moves, it's colorful, it's emotional; theatre is magic!"

"Okay, but who’s in my own commercial target group? Are they, you know, insane?" Insane is such a harsh word. We prefer "occasionally schizophrenic." Anyway, each one of us officers has written our own little piece of advice to you and info about ourselves to help you, you know, break the ice, or something like that. Here goes:

Olyvia Anothayanontha-President Olyvia, a junior, is soooooo excited for this upcoming year! She is thrilled to be serving as the Troupe's president and can't wait for what's in store! She has been involved in multiple shows including Story Theatre, You Can't Take it With You (Rheba), Little Shop of Horrors (Customer), and Anything Goes. She has also done backstage work for multiple shows. She is extremely excited to meet all of the new faces and can't wait for a great season! "Be a flamingo in a flock of pigeons."

Kenzi Parsons-Vice President Kenzi, a junior, is absolutely ecstatic to be serving as your Vice President! As a sophomore, she served as Clerk #2, as well as portraying a specialty dancer and secretary in Little Shop of Horrors, and Mrs. Kirby in You Can’t Take it With You. She was also the costumes mistress for Working. She has worked onstage and offstage at multiple theatre companies including MTKC, the Barn Players, and Stage Right Performing Arts. Outside of theatre, she is a member of A Cappella Choir, SRPA’s Executive Board and Vocalocity Show Choir, and she dances at Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice. She is so excited to meet all the freshmen and newcomers and create another fantastic year of theatre!

Danielle Rehor- Secretary Danielle/Ellie is having déjà-vu as she serves as secretary for the second time. In previous years, Ellie was involved as Fundraiser for the 2013-14 Officer Board and in the ensembles of Thoroughly Modern Millie, Gypsy, and Little Shop of Horrors. She played Charity in Anything Goes and worked backstage as Props Mistress for The Good Doctor and Dames at Sea. She wants to welcome the freshman and newcomers and encourages you to do what you love and learn as much as you can!

Elizabeth McElroy-Treasurer Elroy is a senior and has served on officer board for three years. She has participated in several shows, both onstage and off. Outside of theatre, she is an IB Diploma candidate and loves to be outdoors. "Love the art around you and the light in others."

Jonathan Alexander-Points Clerk Jonathan is ecstatic to be the points clerk this year! You may have seen him in the ensembles of Little Shop of Horrors and Anything Goes, or as Mr. DiPinna in You Can't Take it With You. He has also worked backstage in shows such as Marcus is Walking. He is excited to represent the troupe this year.

Fredrick Rivera-Media Clerk Frederick (Fredo, FDR) is very happy to be Media Clerk on Thespian Troupe #888's Officer Board. Frederick has been in every show on and off stage since he was a freshman. He is very excited to help out even more as a member of officer board.

Maddie Munsey-Publicist Maddie, a sophomore, is thrilled to be serving as Publicist! She spent her freshman year backstage serving as House Manager for both Little Shop of Horrors and You Can't Take it With You. She was later on sound crew for Working and ended the year as Props Mistress for Story Theatre! Maddie can't wait to see what this year has in store, and to meet all of the incoming freshmen! Let's have a great year!

Josh Harris-Stage Manager Josh is so excited for all the shows he will get to be a part of. This is Josh’s second year as stage manager and he has already gotten to experience stage managing great shows like Little Shop of

Horrors and You Can’t Take it With You, but that’s not all he has done. Josh has also been light board operator for many of the shows at Northwest including: Crimes of the Heart, Dames at Sea, Working, choir/orchestra events, and has even been spotlight operator for Anything Goes, and more choir/orchestra events. Josh is very involved in Northwest’s technical theatre program and tends to spend almost every day after school in the theatre. He can’t wait to experience all the new challenges and shows ahead of him during his time in high school.

Elise Dorsey-Historian Elise is a senior this year and is very excited to be on officer board! She has been involved with SMNW theatre for three years. You may have seen her in The Night of January 16th as Defense Attorney Stevens, Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors, Anything Goes, or Thoroughly Modern Millie! She has also worked backstage for many shows including props for Good Doctor, costumes crew for You Can't Take it With You and Story Theatre. She also has done shows with Theatre in the Park and MTKC. She loves theatre and is excited for this year!

Althea Flores-Dramaturge Althea is thrilled to serve as dramaturge and is responsible for researching the historical background of the shows, for the benefit of the actors and audience. She has been involved in every show last year including Little Shop of Horrors (Ensemble), You Can't Take it With You (AD), Working (Spanish Worker), and Story Theatre (Ensemble). She has performed at Theatre Lawrence and The KC Fringe Festival. Outside of theatre she is a guitar and voice student, and a member of the Sinag Tala Performing Arts Troupe. This year she will be in Chamber and A Cappella choirs and serves as sophomore representative of choir. She is looking forward to meeting all the new people and making this an amazing year!

Braden Pomerantz-Fundraiser Braden is a senior and is thrilled to be the new fundraiser! He started doing theatre last year and instantly fell in love with it and all of its members. You may remember him as the uptight Mr. Kirby in You Can't Take it With You or as the Ass and more in Story Theatre. He is excited to get even more involved in theatre this year, and being on officer board will give him that opportunity.

Dylan Klein-Bonding Secretary Dylan is a senior this year, this is his third year being involved in Thespian Troupe #888. He was involved in The Night of January 16th as Homer Van Fleet, Little Shop of Horrors as Seymour, You Can't Take it With You as Grandpa, Working as Conrad and Joe, and Story Theatre as a variety of characters. He is very excited to be Bonding Secretary for his first year on officer board and is ready to take on the challenge. "We tend to be masters of our own fate. The only thing that stops us from doing the really cool things is time." -Monty Oum

TOP SECRETWild and Crazy

Thespian Rules and Traditions

The Catwalks: First of all, if you don't need to be up there for work or literary entertainment, don't be. As a certain member of our Thespian Troupe demonstrated a few years back, you shouldn't be running around up there, especially without the lights on. And most importantly, unless you belong to the current senior class (worry not, one day we all will) you are not to write anything, anywhere, at any time, for any reason. For those of you who are astute, when you do get the opportunity to WALK around in the catwalks (with the lights on, of course) you may notice a lot of writing all over the place. "I thought you couldn't write up there," you may retort, and I will reply to you "NO, I said YOU couldn't write up there." Those "inspirational vandalisms" are lovingly placed on the boards of the catwalk by SENIORS during their final show, or whenever they get around to it :-). Feel free to read any/all of them sometime. They are beautiful and touching in their own right and are even more meaningful when you know the authors. If you are caught signing the wall before you are a senior, you are likely to find yourself in a sewer somewhere minus a few body parts. Yes, I'm exaggerating, but the effect is the same. It is taken VERY seriously! Enjoy the beauty!

The Gypsy Robe: This robe is a tradition started many years ago on Broadway. The dancers on Broadway are known as gypsies because they must travel a lot. One evening, a particular gypsy realized she had nothing to give friend on the friend's opening night. She finally settled on donating her bathrobe after she had decorated it with a memento representing the friend's show. (---?! Don't ask me, I'm just the secretary.) The girl who got it was touched, and when a different friend of hers opened in another show, she attached to the robe another memento and gave it to gypsy #3. Every time someone opened in another show, the person who had the robe passed it on until the robe was covered with little mementos and the robe had to be given up to the Smithsonian. Thus began the tradition of the Gypsy Robe. Our SMNW Gypsy Robe began after our first production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat when Brian Lowe's mom made one. Brian, who is now the principal at Mill Creek Elementary School, played Joseph. The robe is passed on from the person who received it last to the actor (an upperclassman) who the last recipient thinks has contributed most to the show and to the department. This passing-on is accompanied by reading from the journal that goes along with the robe and usually a great deal of ocular discharge -- it is considered a magnificent and solemn honor to receive this

token of esteem from one's peers. Our original robe was retired in 1991 to the glass case in the auditorium -- take a look at it sometime. The SMNW gypsy robe has belonged to: --well, a lot of people, but we are only going to name a few of the latest ones here.

Eric Fillmore--Once Upon a Mattress-2010Connor Haley--The Man Who Came to Dinner-2011Mike Allen and Claire Martin-- Les Misérables- 2011

Tanner Rose-Cabaret -2011Trey Edwards-Night Must Fall-2012Nick Coyan-Black Comedy and The Real Inspector Hound-2012

Gabby Rehor—Thoroughly Modern Millie 2012Paige Cook –The Diviners 2013Mitch Nolan—The Good Doctor 2013

Elizabeth Brooks- Anything Goes 2013Emily Robison- Crimes of the Heart 2014Kristoph Gies- Dames at SeaBen Huddleston- The Night of January 16th 2014

Christina Hayford-Little Shop of Horrors 2014Ryllie Quesada- You Can't Take it With You 2015Marlee Bell- Working 2015Rachael Carney- Story Theatre 2015

The Golden Hammer: "But what about those dedicated, hard-working techies?" you ask. I was just getting to that. The Golden Hammer is the equivalent of the Gypsy Robe except that it’s for techies. Passed on from peer to peer along with a journal, it is an honor given to the hardest-working, most dedicated upperclassman techie during a show. This award began in 1994: Here are a few of the ones you might know.

Luke Meyer—Once Upon a Mattress-2010Matt Harrison—The Man Who Came to Dinner-2011Julia Stanislav— Les Misérables -2011

Connor Stultz-Cabaret-2011Savannah Bell-Night Must Fall-2012Heather Jackson-Black Comedy and The Real Inspector Hound-2012

Krista Hill-Thoroughly Modern Millie 12-13Amanda Gerber –The Diviners 12-13Gabby Rehor—The Good Doctor 12-13

Emily Young- Anything Goes 2013

Jesse Black- Crimes of the Heart 2014Emily Robison- The Night of January 16th 2014

Rachael Carney- Little Shop of Horrors 2014Ryllie Quesada- You Can't Take It With You 2015Josh Harris- Story Theatre 2015

The Silver Baton:“Whew!” That’s a really long list, I’m glad it’s over...” you exclaim. Oh, but there’s even more thespian fun. The silver baton award, contrived by Ms. Rodgers and Mr. Bishop, is equal to the Gypsy Robe and the Golden Hammer, (yes, there is actually a silver baton!). It and a journal are passed from pit member to pit member for outstanding contribution. It is given during the fall musical and sometimes the spring Repertory musical. Past recipients include:

Spencer Merryfield—Paint Your Wagon—2009-10Sara Kuenzi — Once Upon a Mattress — 2010-11N/A – 2011-12Kaitlin Neil—Thoroughly Modern Millie 2012-13Kelly Sharpe- Anything Goes 2013-2014Julia Davis- Little Shop of Horrors 2014-2015

The Ruby Slipper: When you wake up and realize a grave injustice may have been done, you say, “Hey, what about the dancers?…let’s not forget those hard-working hoofers!!” We have an answer for everything. Therefore: the Ruby Slipper is an award given twice a year to the most outstanding dancer in a musical production. This award is presented during the fall musical and the spring repertory musical. Choreographer, Dianne Dickenson, started this award in 2001. Slipper recipients lately are:

Betzy Castellon—Paint Your Wagon—2009-10Hailey Esch —Once Upon a Mattress—2010-11Tanner Rose—Cabaret—2011-12Amanda Gerber –Thoroughly Modern Millie 2012-13Elizabeth Brooks- Anything Goes 2013-14Marlee Bell- Little Shop of Horrors 2014-15

“So, who represents the interests of the everyday kid in the hall kind of Thespian?”

Class Representatives, that’s who. They attend meetings once a month or so and keep the rest of the troupe updated on what is going on. They help with projects as needed. Since they won’t be elected until Kick-off Meeting, one of them could be you.

Freshmen Rep Sophomore Rep

__Devyn Trondson______ ___Alyssa Gaul________

Junior Rep Senior Rep

__Alison Huddleston_____ ___Sarah Smith________

“Anybody else have a responsible job we should know about?”

Lights ASM Props ASM Reggie Black Lindsey Vandergraph

Costumes ASM Scene Shop ASM Sound ASM Lysle Hartnett A.J. Nauman Zach Vielhauer

Strike: Another audience leaves charmed, delighted, and immensely impressed by our precocious and overwhelming theatrical abilities on the last night of the show. All that energy has to go somewhere -- why not strike? After all, there are sets to dismantle, scene shops to clean, dressing rooms to swamp out, and costumes to be captured, pinned, and classified. Everyone involved in the show ("What, EVERYONE?” you ask. Yes EVERYONE), and any other saint who wants to help, is assigned a task. When that task is done, everyone helps everyone else

until the entire place is spotless and monkey-free. Then we all meet for roll call and dismissal. "But what if I still have an ounce of energy left in my body from the thrill of weeks of hard work paying off in three nights?"

I have two words for you: Cast Party!

Cast Party: "Is it mandatory?" you ask, wearily picking yourself up off the stage, exhausted by strike. This is a difficult question. No, you are not required to go, but, believe me, when you hear on Monday morning, how much fun everyone else had, you'll realize that, in priority, fun sometimes does supersede the bodily need for sleep. We take over some lucky Thespian's house to eat and drink everything in sight before settling down for gag gifts. It must be noted that the cast party is not a school sponsored event, never-the-less, you are expected to wipe your feet when you go in, not chew with your mouth full and thank the designated parental hosts before you leave. We like to raise polite Thespians.

Gag Gifts It's the best part of the cast party, undoubtedly! During the course of a play, someone might be caught doing something really embarrassing, someone might say something REALLY stupid, or someone might ad lib something weird into the show by accident. Anyhoo, it is our job as the observer to remember it and get that person some token of their mishap/eccentricity."Do I use a gift bag, or would it be better to use a nicely-wrapped box?" you ask. I laugh. I laugh hard, and so will everyone else if you arrive with the gift in anything nicer that an old, beat-up paper bag from Hy-Vee. I'm not kidding. It will label you as the biggest nerd in the entire world and you will never be able to leave the house again. Gag gifts are very important to the cast party game, so, if you have an idea, please participate.

Personally, I have kept every gag gift I have ever received! They make good memorabilia!

Applebee's Grill and Bar: Opening night leaves most of us quivering with excitement and "verve." Even though it's a school night, I can't even think about doing homework or sleeping when I could be at Applebee's with good friends partying! Hey, after all, they are America's Favorite Neighbor!

Fatty Fridays: "Well, what about Friday night?" you ask. "With Applebee's Thursday and the cast party Saturday, what do we do Friday night?" I'm glad you asked. Our Vice President is in charge of arranging a time and place where all of our Thespian folk can meet and chat over a feast fit for a king. Time and place will be announced as applicable. We like Friday feasting so well that we do it after rehearsals and not just performances. So select Friday nights, after rehearsal, we pick a different place (close and cheap is good) and we gather for bonding and face stuffing.

Pinkie Lock: Before each public performance of a SMNW show, we all congregate until we randomly form a halfway decent circle. We lock pinkies, and the senior chosen for that night says, "The theatre is magic, and blessed are those who make that magic." That person squeezes his neighbor's pinkie, and so on it goes until "The circle is complete. Everybody Break a Leg!" Thus inspired by the energy passed between all of the cast and crew, we are sent to our places and the show begins. P.S. The whole idea of locking pinkies is so we don’t smear makeup on each other with hugging. Pinkie before, huggy AFTER. If you could refrain from weeping until after the show is over that would help preserve your makeup, too.

Theatre Letters In order to letter in theatre, one must participate significantly in three shows, so it is possible to letter one's freshman year. You must either have a role or work ten hours of tech. Show points carry over from year to year. Good luck! UH, I MEAN,

BREAK A LEG.

Pictures: Hal Johnson and Rich Carver and Mark Baltzley, best friends of the theatre department, take pictures of a dress rehearsal of each show. A selection of these pictures is displayed in the glass case in the mall (main hall, for freshmeat), and at the Thespian Banquet. One can order copies of these pictures to keep. Go to www.smnw2014.shutterfly.com to order them. When we start loading pictures from this year in Dec. You can access them by changing the date in the address to 2015. These photos make great mementos and gifts for grandparents and such. You can access earlier years by inserting 2009, 2010 etc. More info can be acquired by contacting KR or the current Booster Club president, Denise Robison.

Blue Star Awards:Our participation in these awards is fairly new. Seven years ago we first entered into the Blue Star program, held by Starlight Theatre. Basically, they send a couple of their judges to participating schools, to watch a performance of our musicals. They nominate shows in several categories. When the end of the school year rolls around (probably on graduation night) the actual awards ceremony is held at Starlight. Whomsoever wants to go may do so. Basically those people come back and tell the rest of us what happened at the ceremony and if we won anything. Our Blue Star Awards include:

Outstanding Chorus for Carousel ‘04Best Ensemble for Working ‘05Best Featured Actress, Marisa Wilson, for Working ‘05Best Director, Keli Rodgers, for Working ‘05Best Orchestra, for Pirates of Penzance ‘06

Best Ensemble Member, Kaitlin Mesh for Pirates of Penzance ‘06Best Actress, Kaitlin Mesh, for Rose Alvarez, Bye Bye Birdie ‘07Outstanding Chorus, Bye Bye Birdie, ‘07Best Actress, Alyson Golladay for Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd ’08 Technical Achievement Scholarship Award, Sam Kendrick ‘09Rising Star Scholarship – Savannah Bell ‘12Outstanding Student Artistic Contribution- Elizabeth Brooks for Direction and Choreography of Dames at Sea '14Rising Star Female- Elizabeth Brooks '14Outstanding Actress in a Lead Role- Maggie Marx

- Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors '15

The Thespian Banquet and

Awards: The culmination of all our hard work lies in the banquet. It's the only proper way to close out a theatrical season! They are incredibly fun, and anyone who doesn't go feels very left out. So come!!! Yes, there is a small admission price, but we are talking about a semi-formal catered dinner, hilarious slide show, Thespian awards, senior farewell, picture ordering, the installment of next year's officers, and the announcement of the following year's musical! It's more than worth it. Anyhoo, here are the awards that we give out every year, as well as a list of which lucky souls received them last year:

Outstanding Contribution of a Non-StudentDan Quesada Bonny ParsonsJesse Black Don Tuckness

Outstanding Orchestra Member:Julia Davis

Outstanding Vocal Abey Lewis Elise Dorsey Rebecca CarrollMegan Dunn Fredrick Rivera

Outstanding DancerMandy Dunly Kenzi ParsonsMegan Dunn Marlee Bell

Rebecca Carroll Alison Huddleston

Outstanding Actor in the Ensemble:

Brenan Mills AJ NaumanAlyssa Gaul Jared Berlin

Outstanding Tech Contribution:Maddie Munsey Lindsey Vandergraph

Reggie Black AJ Nauman Jared Berlin Rachael Carney Tim Gibson Neima Rafizedeh

Outstanding Crew Head:Haley Brown Marta FearsRachael Carney Zach Vielhauer

Outstanding Repertory Theatre Contribution:First Semester: Fredrick RiveraSecond Semester: Rachael Carney

Outstanding Repertory Performance- Second Semester:Elise Dorsey Rachael CarneyMarlee Bell Lysle HartnettDylan Klein Ryllie Quesada

Outstanding Cameo Performance:Lysle Hartnett Elise DorseyBraden Pomerantz Olyvia Anothayanontha

Outstanding Assistant Director:Lysle Hartnett

Outstanding Assistant Technical Director:Ryllie QuesadaAdam Baughman Josh Harris

Best Stage Manager:Josh Harris

Outstanding Supporting Actor:Brandon Smith in You Can't Take it With YouDylan Klein in You Can't Take it With YouFredrick Rivera in Story Theatre

Outstanding Supporting Actress:Rebecca Carroll in Little Shop of HorrorsMarlee Bell in You Can't Take it With YouRachael Carney in You Can't Take it With You

Director’s Award:Althea Flores

Best Freshman:Maddie Munsey

Best Newcomer:Braden Pomerantz

Best Actor:Fredrick Rivera

Best Actress: Maggie Marx

Greg Parker Memorial Achievement Award: For many years, an award was given to the senior who was deemed by the rest of the members to be the most committed, talented, and spirited student over four years of involvement. Greg Parker was the theatre teacher and director here at NW for seventeen years from 1973 to 1991. The award bears his name ever since his death in 1991. The following are the past recipients:

Luke Meyer-2011Savannah Bell – 2012Gabby Rehor - 2013Emily Robison - 2014Rachael Carney - 2015

Thespian Booster Club: '98 was the first year our troupe was blessed with a booster club. We have benefited greatly from their efforts and we extend many thanks for their hard work and dedication. As a troupe, we are looking forward to what the club can continue to accomplish this year. The Booster Club officers are as follows:

President– Denise Robison Corresponding Secretary – Diana McElroy

Communications Secretary- Kevin BaughmanTreasurer – Yvonne Dorsey Sales Manager – TBABears - TBA Flowers- Leigh Ann CarrollBreak-a-legs – Bonny ParsonsCast Dinners - Jennifer Rivera Publicity - Kevin BaughmanProgram Ads –Bonny Parsons

“Do you people have a web site or Facebook page?” Glad you asked! We have both. Web address is:

www.smnwtheatre.comFacebook page is Thespian Troupe #888.www.facebook.com/thespiantroupe888

WE ALSO TWEET!Follow us @Troupe8

“What about the theatre classes? Which ones should I take? Are they as weird as the thespians?”

Well, that all depends. Here’s a description, but keep in mind, we take our art very seriously around here.

Drama -- full year: This class teaches the fundamentals of acting and focuses on basic acting technique. It briefly studies the history of drama and musical theatre as art forms. It also provides a practice time for improvisational and scene-acting skills and allows students to dabble in stagecraft.

Actor's Studio -- one semester: This is the second step. One must have basic knowledge and basic acting experience to excel in this class. The actor works out his personal trouble spots in order to better his own skills. This class enables students to better understand the workings of a scene and introduces them to the world of classical scenes and

monologues. Acting theory is introduced with an emphasis on Stanislavsky and Stella Adler.

Technical Theatre-- one semester: This class focuses on the technical aspects of theatre. Tech students learn the basics of construction, lighting, and sound. Design is emphasized.

Repertory Theatre -- one semester at a time: This class requires the ability to utilize all theatrical skills that have been learned in previous years, as students produce plays drawing from the resources of their fellow classmates (not open auditions). Students are also introduced into the wonderful, and often messy, world of stage makeup and the art of directing.

Advanced Repertory Theatre -- one semester at a time: For students who have already experienced Rep. Theatre, Advanced Rep. gives students the opportunity to produce and direct plays with other highly experienced thespians.

“So, if I wanted to become one of these crazy Thespian types, how would I go about it?” You should start by beginning to accumulate Thespian points. Here’s how the point system works: You start out as a Wanna-Be. One becomes a Wanna-Be when he/she accumulates one or more, but no greater than twenty, points. For more info on points, check the poster in the Little Theatre (its big) or talk to one of your clerks. If you're really desperate (and understandably afraid of the clerks) you could ask any of the other officers, but we might not be of much help. So just check the poster or the website. Now, on to levels of Thespian-dom!! Wanna-Be -- Less than 20 points Inductee -- 20-29 points One Star -- 30-39 points Two Star -- 40-49 points Three Star -- 50-75 points Four Star -- 76-100 points Honor Bar -- 101-200 points Double Honor Bar -- 200+ points

So, who are the current Thespian types, do I already know any of them and do any of them want to give me a ride?Yes, a lot of them will give you a ride. Don’t be afraid to ask!

I don’t know if you know any of them or not, sorry, there is only so much a handbook can do. The ride part all depends on their access to a car, but if they have the ability, don’t be afraid to go ahead and ask.

(DRUMMMMMRRRRRRROLLLLL)

Thespian Calendar 2015-2016:

Into the Woods ………………………Nov. 7-9

 Twenty-Four Hour Play Festival…………………..…..Dec. 12

THE FOREIGNER……………………….Feb. 20-22

The 25th Annual Putnam CountySpelling Bee................................................April 3-5

Talking With……………….…………......April 23-25

Alumni on their NW Theatre Experience

“I didn't start doing theatre stuff till my sophomore year and I really regret not starting my freshman year. Theatre was like my second family. I wasn't an actor, I was a techie, but it was still awesome! Working backstage I saw more of the show than any audience member will ever experience and I will always love having those great memories. I learned from Mama T "I didn't say it would be easy, I said it would be worth it". I miss SMNW Theatre. :')” –Mike Hanus ‘10

“When I discovered SMNW's wonderful theatre department, it was like opening a door to a whole new world for me. Without it I probably would not be able to handle going to college next semester or even moving out of the house. I owe most of my open-mindedness and acceptance to our theatre department. It was through theatre that I was exposed to real life and real issues. Theatre has given me the opportunity to be my own person.” --Katie Wolff '01 Former Rep. to KU Student Legislative Awareness Org. and Assistant to former Health & Human Services Sec. Kathleen Sebelius

“The theatre program provided me with all of the tools I needed to better myself, tools such as integrity, leadership skills, the ability to excel in a group setting, trust, and above all, passion.” --Kevin Hager ’00 Former Director, KU Center for Community Outreach Currently running a non-profit in NYC

“The theatre education SMNW gave me more than prepared me for my college theatre classes. In many cases what I learned from you was better than what my college professors taught. The quality of Northwest productions was and is of the highest caliber. The level of professionalism you demand is higher than the standards set by my college professors. I am currently student teaching at Joplin High School where the enrollment is close to that of Northwest, at least at the time I attended. My cooperating teacher was amazed, impressed and shocked when I told her how many shows you produce per year and how many Thespian members you have. Thank you for the wonderful education you gave me.” --Amy Simmons ’97 Theatre Teacher and Radio Personality

“Being a part of Thespians not only gave me the chance to grow in theater but socially as well. I had an instant family, friends who have lasted past graduation. Being a part of the drama dept. gave me more confidence in myself not only to be comfortable with who I am, but also allowed me the freedom to explore who I could become.” --Amy Wedel ’92 Sound Supervisor, Dallas Theatre Center

“During my time as a student at Northwest, I became heavily involved in the theatre department. I never knew that one activity could so become part of who I am. The life skills, like discipline and cooperation, that I learned as part of Thespian Troupe #888

are carried with me every day, into every new situation.” -- Katie (Mangelsdorf) Kring, ’96 National Merit Scholar / professional artist / mom

“Thespian Troupe #888 taught me to get off my butt and go get the things in life that I want. They're not going to just come knocking on my door. Theatre opened me up and taught me that it was okay to speak my mind. The department gave me a vast amount of confidence, which enabled me to get past seeking validation from others. It helped me become a better performer, but more importantly, transformed me into a better human being.” --Christopher Ayres ‘99 graphic designer and professional actor

“The bonds formed with other Thespians were absolutely amazing!! There is hardly a bond that strong with a group of people anywhere in life, and we had that all the time. We got to know each other so well that we could finish each other’s sentences. It was an incredibly positive experience.” --Scott Cady, ’94 pharmacist

“Theatre helped me learn responsibility, and team work. It allowed me to feel the satisfaction of accomplishment. I tell my younger relatives and friends to take theatre not only because it’s fun but because it will help shape them as people.” --Mark Daniel Krull Jr. ’97 Herper “I’ve never experienced a high like I have on stage. It releases any worries of my world. It allows me to concentrate my energy and mind in a different way than even sports can. I have enjoyed high school and participated in many groups throughout, but none can compare to theatre.” --Jake Brown ‘96

“I believe the theatrical training I received here at NW will ultimately be one of the most beneficial areas of knowledge I have, no matter what field I decide to go into. I’ve gained … problem solving skills, an ability to cooperate in group situations and a desire to learn from everything that happens to me.” --Carrie Shanafelt ’97 National Merit Scholar and English Professor “In the past four years I have really grown as a person. I am not afraid to take initiative and to take control. I’m not as self-conscious as I once was, and I’m not afraid to face the future. I credit it all to you and this marvelous department.” --Amy Simmons ’97 Theatre Teacher and Radio Personality

“NW theatre prepared me so well that I’m way ahead of a lot of people in my acting class at KU. I already know the material.” --Katie Hartman ’02 professional actress, musician and playwright

“Drama class kind of freaked me out. It was so different than other classes. It changed my mentality about life. After taking Drama, I found that you have to live in the real world and not some place where people tell you what to think. It shows you to somehow respect other people more. I would definitely recommend this class to other people.” --Mike Smith ‘96 “Theatre was more rewarding than anything else I did in high school.” --Breana Sheffler ’01 Miss Topeka 2004; Music teacher

“I couldn't have asked for a better start. SMNW theatre is really, truly, I swear on my life, the only reason that I am in college.” --Jaime Blum ’00

“Theatre forces you to get outside yourself. You learn to understand other people by playing characters. I gained confidence and discovered who I am, who I want to be, by learning more about who other people are.”--Heidi Ruhnke ’03 “I graduated from Northwest as Thespian president, NHS Vice President, an editor of Penpoint, a National Merit Scholar, a member of two top choirs and an honor roll student. Out of all these activities and honors, that which has had the biggest effect on me is without question my time in Northwest theatre. I was lucky enough to find it as a freshman and benefited immeasurably over my four years. Theatre is a special environment because it is very personal, causing its participants to draw from their very souls to create, to the best of their ability, an art that they love. Because of this, it is the perfect environment to grow up in, as I have witnessed time and time again. Many people enter high school scared to death of rejection and not fitting in. Luckily, some of those people, like myself, find their way into a show or a drama class. They are then encompassed in a world full of people with so much love to give who love having good, clean fun and bringing everyone else along. It's not a social organization, per se, but the lessons in interpersonal communication and how to get along with a wide variety of people are very prevalent in NW theatre. Besides the inherent life lessons, NW theatre also teaches many of the career skills other classes teach, but in a much more applicable way that students deeply care about. From my time in the Thespian Troupe, my leadership skills were astoundingly refined, I worked first hand with visual design and the field of marketing, did construction and technology work, and coordinated numerous events involving many people and ideas. This is outside of the obvious acting work, which I am still heartliy pursuing after graduating with a 4.0 acting major from the University of Oklahoma. Just like me, most theatre students don't just do theatre, but instead contribute in many ways to the community at Northwest. Many of our own officers are officers of other organizations and most of our students are involved heavily in NW life. This excitement for life and to do and take charge of many things has its roots in the attitude the theatre department instills. That is a quality which is hard to find, and therefore very valuable. The SMNW theatre department has a huge benefit to all who care to join and I would encourage great support from the school and its administration for this very enriching organization.”

--Aubrey Brown ’00 National Merit Scholar, professional actress and mom

“I used to end shows relieved. I couldn’t wait to be done. I’d stand on the stage during strike and promise myself I’d never come back. But I always did.Tonight, I will stand on the stage and wish time would freeze. Because this time there can be no coming back. Not for real. Not the same. Now that I want to stay, it is suddenly time to leave. I know I got into this game late. I know there are so many of you who are more deeply tied to this place, who have more memories here, who experienced more, who were more involved. I am ever jealous of you, and I understand that what I feel now must be only the tip of the iceberg for you. But please indulge me, and allow me a moment to say good-bye.To say good-bye to the place where I learned trying involves not giving up. To the place where I learned you have to stand up for yourself. To the place where I learned you cannot run from your passions. To the place where I learned that family accepts you for better or for worse, and always welcomes you back with open arms. I love you all so dearly, I cannot thank you in a way that will encompass all the ways you all have touched and changed my life. I won’t even try, because I can’t have these tattoos run. I only wish I could have gotten here sooner, could have known you sooner,

could have let these bonds form stronger, could have been as big a part of your lives as you have been of mine. We say “The theatre is magic and blessed are those who make that magic.” You all make that magic, but I am the blessed one, because I have spent even this little time among you. I love you forever, I am a better person because of you.” Love, Catherine Barrett “08

The Constitution of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School Thespian Troupe #888Article I : PurposesSection 1. The Preamble We, the thespians of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School, in order to form a more efficient troupe, promote the theatre arts, ensure troupe tranquility, provide for the common defense and promote a positive atmosphere for creativity, do ordain and establish this constitution for Thespian Troupe #888.

Section 2. The mission of this organization is to promote the theatre arts and the principles they teaches:

A. cooperationB. empathy and toleranceC. self-motivationD. perseveranceE. acceptance of criticism and praiseF. respect

G. personal growth

Article II: UnderclassmenSection 1. We, as a troupe, do hereby dedicate ourselves to the inclusion of underclassmen and new thespians in general, and to making them feel comfortable in becoming part of the organization. Our tools to encourage this include the Freshman Workshop, Troupe Handbook, and general troupe attitude.

Article III: ObligationsSection 1. We encourage anyone who is interested in theatre to come and give his or her time and energy. However, not doing what you have committed yourself to do will not be tolerated. For example, not working for a crew when you signed up for one, not completing your tech hours for a show, dropping out of a crew/cast, etc.Section 2. It is every cast and crew member's responsibility to complete the designated amount of technical work AND attend strike. This does not mean just show up--everyone is required to actually work.

Article IV: Spreading the ArtsSection 1. This theatre department is dedicated to exposing the community of Northwest High School and the surrounding feeder elementary and middle schools to the theatre arts.

Section 2. By producing shows, we also dedicate ourselves to spreading the arts throughout the community of Shawnee Mission, Kansas and beyond.

Article V: CastingSection 1. Directors, student directors, and guest directors all reserve the right to cast shows in whatever manner they think will produce the highest-quality show possible. Section 2. Roles are not "given"; they are earned. The following are the factors all directors at Northwest will consider:

A. Quality of auditionB. Age (upperclassmen do have a slight edge.)C. Previous exhibition of responsibility. Are you always on task, and do you always finish the job given to you by the deadline? Are you always on time to rehearsal?D. Physical appearance. Do you fit the character type? Would your physical appearance blend or contrast as necessary with the others being considered? NW is committed to colorblind casting.

• E. ExperienceF. Dedication to the department. Do you participate in Thespians? Do you give your time to the tasks that are not so much fun but necessary to the smooth functioning of the troupe?

Article VI: Facilities Section 1. Northwest has been blessed with very nice theatrical facilities. Because we have the privilege of using them, it is our responsibility to care for them. We are responsible for the condition of the Parker Auditorium, Little Theatre, the choir room, the dressing rooms, backstage, and any other space we use during the year. We are also responsible for the care of furniture and other properties we use. Needless to say, we are not the only students who use these places, but no thespians will damage them in any way. Section 2. Fire safety backstage will be monitored as it is the troupe's responsibility to maintain this.

Article VII: TraditionsSection 1. The Gypsy Robe and Golden Hammer are prestigious awards passed on from the previous recipient to the person who is thought to have contributed most to the show AND to the department. This person must be an upperclassman selected by the past recipient. The Gypsy Robe is for actors and The Golden Hammer is for technicians. The Golden Hammer and Gypsy Robe shall be awarded three times per year during each of the mainstage productions.

Section 2: In 1999, the Silver Baton was added to this list for outstanding orchestral contribution of a senior to the NW theatre. In 2001 the Ruby Slipper was added as an award to recognize outstanding contribution in dance and/or choreography. The Silver Baton and Ruby Slipper shall be awarded twice each year during the fall mainstage musical and during the spring Repertory musical. Recipients should be upper classmen. The baton will be passed on by the current pit orchestra conductor. The slipper will be passed by the current recipient or choreographer.

Section 3. The catwalks above Parker Auditorium are only to be written in by the current senior class. This is a privilege, not a right, and it will be taken away if non-seniors write in them or abuse them in any way.

Article VIII: InductionsSection 1. Any "wannabe" thespian who has earned 20 thespian points and is active in the NW troupe will be inducted into the troupe as soon as he/she has paid thespian dues.

Section 2. Inductions are held twice a year, at the end of each semester. This is a private ceremony and no non-members will be allowed to observe. It is the class representatives' job to monitor this.

Article IX: Thespian ConferencesSection 1. Any point-holding thespian who brings in the appropriate paperwork and money by the appointed deadline is hereby free to attend any conference. This does, however, depend on the number of sponsors we have available. If not enough sponsors are found, the latest to turn in their information will be cut if they cannot provide an additional sponsor.

Article X: Voting & NominationsSection 1. Only thespians who have achieved the ranking of three stars or above will be permitted to have their names placed in nomination or vote for the Greg Parker Memorial Achievement Award.Section 2. To vote for the Repertory Theatre performance and contribution awards, one must fit one of the following entire sets of qualifications:

A. Must be enrolled in the rep. class for a given semester, successfully been a part of one of the rep shows, and must have seen all the other rep. productions for that semester.B. Must have been an out-of-class cast (not crew) member of a rep. show for the given semester and must have seen all other rep productions that semester.

Section 3. Anyone who has a minimum of one thespian point and attends the spring voting meeting may vote for Best Freshman and Thespian Officers. Absentee ballots may be used at descretion of sponsor.

Section 4. To have your name put in nomination for Best Freshman, a freshperson must have a minimum of 20 Thespian points and/or be an inducted Thespian.

Article XI: LetteringSection 1. To letter in theatre, a thespian must have made a significant contribution to all three mainstage shows. A significant contribution is designated as either A or B below:

A. Perform in the show and complete five hours of technical work.B. Work on a crew for the show, contributing a minimum of ten hours of technical work.

Section 2. One may letter with any combination of crews and onstage work.Section 3. Shows carry over from year to year. For example, if you significantly contribute to one show your freshman year and two your sophomore year, you letter. Once those three shows have gone towards a letter, you start back at zero.

Article XII: Dance CandidatesSection 1. Any inducted senior of the troupe who has not already been nominated by another activity is automatically a nominee for Thespian candidate for Homecoming Queen/King, Queen of Courts/Big Man on Campus, and Prom Queen/King. Anyone with a minimum of one point may vote for the Thespian nominees. We will follow the Spirit Club rules for nominations and re-nominations.

Article XIII: Troupe LeadershipSection 1. The troupe membership shall elect a team of officers every spring election day. Anyone who has been inducted into the troupe (even if it is on the very day of the elections), attends the designated officer information meeting (if possible) prior to the elections, and is available for Monday night meetings from 6-9pm may run. Every candidate is entitled to a normal paper-sized resume on the troupe's callboard. Candidates run for officer, not for a specific office. The Thespian Troupe sponsor places the top ten vote getters in the positions in which he/she thinks they will function the most efficiently.

Section 2. Officers are required to attend 85 percent of the weekly meetings, complete their designated tasks, help plan all thespian events and attend all events unless other arrangements are made to the satisfaction of the sponsor and officer board ahead of time. FAILURE TO FULFILL OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES CAN RESULT IN IMPEACHMENT.

Section 3. The membership elects class representatives at the Ice Cream Social held at the beginning of the year. Two people from each class will be selected for a total of eight. These reps will be required to attend an officer meeting once a month (the day decided on by the officers and reps in advance) to help with special event planning, troupe-officer relations, and other projects. They also shadow the officers to learn more about the way the board works. Failure to attend two meetings without prior approval will result in impeachment proceedings.

Section 4. If an officer fails to perform a part of his or her duty, the board will discuss impeachment. If the majority of the board votes to remove that officer, a class representative will be asked to take over the office. The open position of an officer who resigns will be subject to the same procedure. The officers, the Thespian sponsor and the Technical Director will select the new officer at their discretion.

Section 5. The ten specific officer positions are as follows:• President-responsible for organizing and running officer meetings and the

doings of the troupe. The president must come with a prepared agenda for every meeting and ensure that other officers meet their deadlines.

B. Vice President-responsible for maintaining a calendar on the callboard of upcoming theatrical events (school, community, and professional). The V.P. keeps the callboard updated, functions as liason to the class reps. and helps the president in any way requested. The V.P. is also responsible for the organization of the trip to the State/National Thespian Conventions.C. Secretary-responsible for troupe correspondence and the Thespian Handbook. The handbook is to be compiled, typed, and edited by the secretary during the summer preceding his or her term of office. The secretary contacts people, informing them of our events (like Freshman Workshop) and writes thank you notes, etc. when appropriate. The secretary also keeps minutes of all meetings. D. Treasurer-responsible for the finances of the troupe. The treasurer keeps the books for all theatre accounts, writes purchase orders, handles deposits and all money collection for the troupe, turns in receipts, and deals with the school bookkeeper.E. Clerk 1-calculates thespian points and posts updated lists on the callboard at least after every show. Clerk 1 also handles inductions, i.e. notifies those with 20 or more points, assigns "parents", and is responsible for the membership sheets getting mailed to the International Thespian Society.F. Clerk 2-responsible for maintaining the points wall in the Little Theatre- updating it as often as the point list is updated. Clerk 2 also handles the marquee.G. Stage Manager-responsible for keeping stage and scene shop clean and fire safe! The Stage Manager also handles all events that come through Parker Auditorium such as the Fashion Show, concerts, dance recitals, etc.H. Publicist-responsible for publicizing all NW theatre events, i.e. shows, Improv Night, Masquerade Ball, etc. The publicist does this through posters, the morning announcements, newspapers, the mall banner, sandwich boards, etc.I. Historian-responsible for all the pictures of our shows. This includes the pictures and negatives, picture orders, printing, picture money, and the troupe slideshow. Prepares scrapbook and/or displays for Thespian convention competition along with dramaturge.J. Dramaturge-responsible for researching shows and keeping a troupe scrapbook. The dramaturge finds and preserves all newspaper clippings puts them in our scrapbooks. They also do appropriate research on the authenticity, author, historical significance, costuming, etc. of every mainstage show.