Saturday’s Little Oscars celebration — the 50th annual — had a a little bit of everything: elaborate song-and-dance numbers, more than a few laughs, an occasional tear, and buckets of rainfall by the end.
But the centerpiece was once again recognizing the work of several talented, young thespians who starred during the school year at various Iola High School drama events.
As the 50th annual such event, a quartet of special guests — former drama instructors Jerry Snider (who crafted the idea of the first Little Oscars), Shirley (Upshaw) Antes, Susan Raines and Jennifer Jones. The only one missing, David Dutton, sent a video message.
Among the highlights:
Senior Trilby Bannister was a two-time winner, bringing home the Outstanding IHS Players award for her work to support the club and its activities; and the Don Bain Showman of the Year, voted on by Players members, going to an outgoing senior.
Seniors Emma Piazza and Garrett Prall won Best Actress and Best Actor awards, respectively, for their work in both IHS productions this year, “Almost, Maine” and “Cyrano De Burger Shack.”
Freshman Zach Cokely brought in a pair of awards as well, first as the Male Rookie of the Year, the second for his supporting actor work in “Cyrano.”
Senior Katie Terhune brought home the Susan S. Miller Award, as voted on by her fellow forensics club members.
Junior Olivia Bannister was named Best Supporting Actress for her work in “Almost, Maine.”
Freshmen Karly McGuffin was named top underclasswoman and Kanyon Beasley top underclassman for their work in both “Almost, Maine” and “Cyrano De Burger Shack.”
Junior Abigail Taylor was named Female Rookie of the Year for her performance in “Cyrano.”
Bobbi Sinclair and Judd Wiltse, earned the Stanislavski and Boleslavski awards, respectively, for their work in “Cyrano.” The Stanislavski and Boleslavski awards go to characters who shine in parts not designated as major or supporting roles.
Caleb Spencer earned the Fall Technical Little Oscar for his behind-the-scenes work in “Almost, Maine.” Senior Madison Luken, stage manager for “Cyrano,” earned the Spring Technical Award.
Senior Torrie Lewis brought home an honorary Little Oscar for her support of the IHS drama program through high school.
Work outside USD 257 also was recognized. Sam Terhune brought home the Iola Community Theatre Award for his acting work in last fall’s ICT production, “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.”
Moments before the 4 1/2-hour event concluded — still shorter than last fall’s Bowlus gala to celebrate its 50th anniversary, Snider joked — a torrential rain storm hit the Iola area. A cascade of water that had penetrated the center’s roof came cascading into the auditorium as the crowd filed out.
50th Little Oscars brings laughs, tears â and rain
