South dramatists win acting accolades

    South Campus’ drama department has received accolades this semester from The Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KC/ACTF).

    During the KC/ACTF, the prestigious Irene Ryan Competition also takes place.

    Djemal Burris, student, was one of 16 actors selected out of 163 auditioning to perform as an Irene Ryan finalist.

    Burris also received the Excellence in Acting Award from the Southwest Regional Committee of KC/ACTF.

    Stephanie Kelly progressed into the semifinals and Mark Phillips received the Best Irene Ryan Partner Award for his selection.

    Out of 91 auditioners, eight South Campus students were selected.

    The students, Burris, Kenneth Houston, Hillari Paulk, Ned Record, Rene Finkenkeller, Jennifer Lush, Tonia Phillips and Allen Randall were chosen to perform in original 10-minute plays presented to the National Playwriting Committee at the festival.

    Campus administrators were informed about the success of the department in a letter addressed to South Campus president, Dr. Ernest Thomas.

    In the letter, Susan Shaffer, co-manager and administrator for KC/ACTF, wrote, “I am pleased to let you know that your theatre department’s fine work has been recognized by the KC/ACTF.”

    The deserving production was The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window, one of a select few chosen from Region 6 to be showcased at the event last February.

    Patty McCormick, assistant professor of fine arts, was also invited to direct one of the 10-minute plays submitted from several ACTF regions in the United States.

    All of these plays will be published and were presented at the National Festival at the Kennedy Center in April.

    KC/ACTF sponsored McCormick’s stay in Washington D.C. during the week of the festival.