Redmond Proficiency Academy thespians steal the show at Oregon Thespian Festival in Salem

– Redmond Proficiency Academy’s thespian troupe competed in the annual Oregon Thespian State Festival in Salem from April 4-6, where they earned top marks for each category they performed in, advancing them to the International Thespian Festival.

The festival is considered to be the signature event for Oregon high school thespians. It was attended by over 1,500 theater students and teachers from around the state and featured main stage productions, dozens of one act plays, workshops and presentations.

“This department is the epitome of ensemble,” said RPA Theatre Director Kate Torcom. “It’s an educator’s dream: they work hard, champion one another and commit entirely to their pieces, all while maintaining a playful demeanor. Truly, we have fun and it’s a gift.”

RPA’s thespian troupe showcased for large group musical, solo acting, and stage management. Their appearance at the state festival marks the seventh straight year they have showcased, an unmatched accomplishment for schools in Central Oregon.

The troupe earned Superior Rankings for each category they competed in: Large Group Musical, Solo Musical, Group Acting, Solo Acting and Stage Management.

“My competitive show was really challenging,” said senior Amelie Montgomery. “To be able to share my process and what I learned as well as rank first makes me feel overwhelmingly of everyone involved and myself.”

Amelie was the festival’s sole “showcase select” in Stage Management, a significant accomplishment given that this year had the highest attendance in that category in Oregon Thespian history.

About Redmond Proficiency Academy
Redmond Proficiency Academy (RPA) is a tuition-free public charter school located in Redmond, Oregon. RPA serves approximately 900 students from grades 6th-12th throughout Central Oregon. With an innovative and personalized proficiency-based collegiate model, RPA provides dynamic pathways to success for all students.