Peabody Veterans Memorial High School won a first-place spot at the state’s Drama Fest Finals for the third year in a row this weekend.
The school’s Stage One drama club received a top performance award for its production of “Clyde’s” at the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild state finals at John Hancock Hall in Boston, as did Stoughton High School’s production of “Anon(ymous)” and Milton High School’s rendition of “ Too Many Daughters: A Jane Austen Parody.”
This follows wins from Peabody for “Yerma” in 2023 and “The Whale” in 2024.
“Winning this prestigious competition three years in a row is an incredible feat and a testament to the dedication, talent and hard work of the students, faculty and directors involved,” said Stephanie Manning, the theater teacher and director at PVMHS.
“This remarkable accomplishment highlights not only the strength of the drama program, but also the passion for the arts within our community.”
Fifty-five students made up the production’s cast members, production team and crew.
“Clyde’s” was written by Lynn Nottage and showcases the spirit of redemption among its formerly incarcerated characters, all of whom are on a quest to create the perfect sandwich while working at a truck stop sandwich shop under a stony employer.
“This production process taught our students about strength, forgiveness and beginning again, even when the circumstances seem impossible,” Manning said. “Most importantly, they shared with audiences that everyone deserves a second chance. It was a powerful message that we were proud to share.”
Peabody students took home individual awards on top of their team win at the state finals.
Senior Myles Fitzgerald won an Excellence in Acting award for his role of Jason, while Junior Kaelyn Veltry won for Technical Excellence in Movement Coordination.
Juniors Temperance Reed and Tabitha Muise, sophomores Victoria Weinberg and Yaniell DeJesus, and freshman Angelari Macharia won for Technical Excellence in Culinary Props Design and Management.
Senior Tijan Camara received the METG Trustees Award for Excellence in Acting for the role of Montrellous, which is given to the outstanding actor of the weekend.
St. John’s Prep also made it to the finals. Beverly High School and Swampscott High School competed in the semifinals last month.
Contact Caroline Enos at CEnos@northofboston.com