Mavs with talent

Milford High School is home to one of the best theater programs in the state. It makes sense then that individual students of the theater program are also recognized as some of the best in the state of Michigan.  This year, Milford High’s Senior Rachel Martin won an award for her astounding directing and technical work at a Michigan Thespian event. 

This particular award is awarded to only 10 students across Michigan and only 1 senior per school is allowed to compete. Winners of this award receive a $500 scholarship to go towards a college of their choice and also get to take home a trophy commending their hard work and talent. The student is given 5 minutes to talk about their area in theater (or perform a song if they are an actor) and where they plan to take it in the future. Judges also examine a technician or director’s portfolio that consists of work they have done on past shows. “This award is an example of what someone can achieve through hard work and dedication,” Theater director Megan Weeks said. “It’s such an honor to be chosen as one of the Top 10 Thespians in the state, and the students know that it’s not easy.  If they want to even be a contender they have to work hard from day one.”

As a stage technician specializing in lighting design, Martin discussed her thought processes for 3 of her lighting designs in her portfolio from 3 shows she helped produce. Lighting technicians are members of the stage crew who are responsible for setting up, monitoring, operating, and arranging lighting to enhance the performance. It is no easy task, yet Martin takes it in stride and uses her talent to elevate the theater company’s shows. “With my designs I’ve made scenes feel sad or exciting. I can show my work on stage instead of being on it myself,” Martin explains. 

As with any competition, there are nerves and suspense present. All Martin could do was place trust in her skill and experience doing the thing she loves. “There were a lot of emotions after receiving this award,” Martin recalled. “I’ve never felt so proud of myself. All I can really remember is crying joyful tears when they called my name to receive my award. I was so grateful to my Director Ms. Weeks and the technical Director Sarah Martin for helping me get to a place where I am proud of my work and myself.” Weeks deems herself a proud teacher as well.  “I am so proud of all of my students and especially my seniors as they have had to push through a lot of obstacles,” she said. “I am so grateful for their perseverance and passion.  They fill my heart with joy and pride.” 

Martin said she enjoys the many different types of people who make up the MTC. “It feels like a family no matter what,” she said. “I never feel alone when I’m at the theatre or being the student technical Director for our program.” The community of the Milford Theater Company is what makes it stand apart from the rest, and what makes its productions so distinguished and phenomenal. Weeks says that Martin is one of those people who contribute to the community and family atmosphere of Milford Theater Co. “Rachel is so dependable and trustworthy, she said.  “She is fun to work with and she is always ready and willing to step in and help.  She is a creative problem solver and a great leader.”

Martin plans to continue her studies in technical theater and design at Northern Michigan University . With earned scholarship money from this award, around $400,000 total in college scholarship offers, she is one step ahead. Martin is excited to be there in the fall and is grateful for the opportunities she has been given. 

Along with Martin, several other students were recognized for their talents. Among the students achieving 1st place in their categories are Lauren Gates – Solo Musical Theatre;

Peyton Wheeler – Solo Musical Theatre; Vivian Lakin & Aubrey Snavley – Duet Musical Theatre; Jillian Armstrong, Vivian Lakin, Aubrey Snavley, Shea Giese & Peyton Wheeler – Group Musical Theatre; Julia Kanak, Tim Dawe, Ally Wilmont, Vivian Lakin & Aubrey Snavley – Group Musical Theatre; Ben Mondrush, Joe Meagher & Jillian Armstrong – Group Acting; Julia Kanak, Joe Meagher, Ben Mondrush, Bryn Graskewicz, Simon Williams, Amelia Beesley, & Tim Dawe – Group Acting. The students who achieved second place in their category included Amelia Beesley & Allie Mobey – Duet Musical Theatre.