(February 18, 2015)

Marjorie Lyons Playhouse hosts first annual Regional High School Theatre Festival

SHREVEPORT, LA — On Friday, February 20, Marjorie Lyons Playhouse will welcome nearly 100 local high school students and teachers for the first annual Regional High School Theatre Festival.

Schools participating in the inaugural event include Caddo Magnet High School, Captain Shreve High School, Northwood High School, Green Oaks High School, and Loyola College Prep. Students will participate in workshops and perform their productions during the three-day festival to a mixed audience of other high school students and members of the community.

"This showcase is important so that both teachers and students are aware of what other schools are doing and how they are doing it," said Chair of the Theater and Dance Department Don Hooper. "Such events build a healthy level of competitiveness and helps their respective administrations focus on the various theatre programs."

A variety of Centenary students, faculty, and staff and community guests will instruct the young thespians on topics ranging from stage combat and aerial yoga to lighting design and the Meisner Technique. Faculty from high schools will also have the opportunity to participate in workshops to continue their professional development without having to travel outside the area.

"Centenary College has a wealth of knowledge and the resources to assist in the continued development of our regional high school theatre programs," said Hooper. "It only makes sense that we offer up that knowledge and resources for the betterment of everyone."

Parents and the public are invited to attend the free performances on Friday, February 20, at 5:40 p.m. and 6:40 p.m. and Saturday, February 21, at 4:10 p.m. and 5:20 p.m. at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse.