Shamrocks to attend Theatre Festival
January 7, 2005

Seven members of the Saint Patrick High School International Thespian Society, along with their advisor Mr. Kevin Long, will be attending the 30th Annual Illinois High School Theatre Festival on January 6, 7, and 8, 2005, at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

This year's theme, "Brave New World", will offer over 3900 Illinois teens an in-depth exposure to all facets of theatre.

John Tilford from Unity High School in Tolono, Illinois, the Executive Director of the Festival, says, "The Illinois High School Theatre Festival is the largest theatre festival of its kind in the country - now celebrating its 30th year! Shakespeare's The Tempest was the inspiration for this year's theme, which celebrates the wonderful world of theater and its many ‘goodly creatures.’"

During the Festival, high school students and teachers participate in over 150 theatre workshops and have the chance to see twenty-four productions selected from high schools across the state. At the festival this year, Mr. Long will be presenting his workshop "Shakespeare Whispers In Your Ear" - the use of the first folio in interpreting and performing the works of Shakespeare.

The Festival also features performances of the musical Ragtime, a production performed by an All-State cast, crew, and orchestra selected by audition from students across the state. This year's All-State production is directed by Kristen Mackie of Mother Guerin High School in River Grove, Illinois.

Another feature of the Festival is the appearance of Brave New Workshop of Minneapolis, Minnesota, a professional company whose pioneering work for half a century has emphasized youth performance and theatre for life.

This Festival is produced by the Illinois Theatre Association and co-sponsored by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Illinois State University.