Each year, the theatre department gives out a pair of awards, the Priscilla and Barnabas awards, to the theatre majors who most exemplify our department’s concept of the Servant Artist, willing to serve both backstage and on, using their talents and energies in the art and activity of theatre.

This year’s Priscilla Award was presented to senior Deanna Smith, who has been selfless in her desire to support others, excellent in her ability to manage and organize as a leader, and has expanded her realm of service beyond the theatre into supporting this spring’s faculty dance concert as their stage manager.  After doing excellent work last year in stage managing Murder in the Cathedral and leading the props crew for Importance of Being Earnest, it’s been a pleasure to watch Deanna’s passion and drive become richer as they have been further tempered with patience and compassion.

The Barnabas Award was presented to junior Dave Harris, who has emerged as a strong leader in our department through taking on senior production responsibilities, establishing himself as a role model of willingness and service.  Dave has been a force onstage for several years, playing lead roles in Much Ado about Nothing and A Doll’s House, but over the past year, as he has developed his abilities as a leader and motivator behind the scenes, his spirit and his giving has shown itself in even stronger performances in Three Sisters and The Bald Soprano this spring.

Please join our faculty in congratulating this year’s Theatre Award recipients.