An Iola High School tradition success in competitive speaking and acting has become as much a part of Kansas springs as hay fever and dandelions.
This year isnt any different.
In fact, the students are so successful, Iola has almost as many state qualifiers who cant go to Topeka this weekend (15) as they do entrants (16), explained forensics coach Regina Chriestenson.
Thats because schools are limited to 16 entries at the State Speech and Drama Championships.
That led to some very difficult decisions for Richard Spencer (assistant drama coach) and me, Chriestenson said Monday.
Iolas Forensics Night Showcase featured many of the performers who will be at state competition, hosted by Washburn Rural High School.
Students are rated in three disciplines: speaking, such as impromptu or informative pieces; interpretation, such as prose or poetry; and acting, either serious or humorous solo numbers, duets and improvised duet acting.
Mondays showcase featured a little bit of everything, Chriestenson noted.
Iolas qualifiers performing Monday were Jiejie Burleson, Haley Carlin, Zach Cokely, Isabella Duke, Allie Fager, Nora Gostner, River Hess, Gaby Lampe, Lauren McDermeit, Karly McGuffin, Sadrie Overall, Parker Smith, Lexie Vega, Emma Weseloh, Isaiah Wicoff.
Other state qualifiers were Bobby Lewis, Henry Lohman, DeAnna McFadden, Adryan Nading, Sierra Petty, Jon Poffenbarger, Andre Quinn, Andi Reynolds and Ella Taylor.
A community sendoff for the state competitors is planned for 9 a.m. Friday at the Bowlus.
