Iola High School feted the best and brightest moments of its memorable year of dramatic arts with the 49th annual Little Oscars celebration.
There was much to applaud with the fall and spring productions — “Leaving Iowa” and “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” — and the recent coronation of Garrett Prall and Olivia Bannister as the Class 4A state forensics champions in improvised duet acting, the third straight such state title for IHS thespians.
The resulting party filled the Bowlus Fine Arts Center auditorium with glitz and glamour rivaling anything found these days in Tinseltown.
The highlights:
Senior Mickey Ingle brought home two Little Oscars, the Best Supporting Actress Award for her work as Sally in “Charlie Brown” and the Don Bain Showman of the Year Award, voted on by the IHS Players members to an outgoing senior.
Junior Trilby Bannister also won two awards, the Susan S. Miller Award, as voted by her fellow forensics club members, and the Stanislavski Award for her portrayal of Woodstock in “Charlie Brown.”
Michael Wilson, president of the IHS Players Club, was voted the Outstanding Players Member for his work to support the club and its activities.
Yohon Sinclair, who portrayed Linus in “Charlie Brown” took home Best Actor. Emma Piazza earned the Best Actress nod for playing Lucy in the same production.
Prall and Micaiah Larney earned Male and Female Rookies of the Year for their work in “Leaving Iowa.”
Brock Ver Hoeven earned the Boleslavski Award for his portrayal of multiple characters in “Leaving Iowa.” The Stanislavski and Boleslavski awards go to characters who shine in parts not designated as major or supporting roles.
Aaron Terhune, the titular character in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” was tapped as the Outstanding Underclass Man recipient. Olivia Bannister earned Outstanding Underclass Woman honors for her role in both “Charlie Brown” and “Leaving Iowa.”
Ankit Gandhi, Schroeder in “Charlie Brown,” earned Best Supporting Actor honors.
Madison Luken, stage manager for “Charlie Brown,” earned the Spring Technical Award. Braden Plumlee, who handled sound operations for “Leaving Iowa,” took home the Fall Technical Award.
Work outside USD 257 also was honored. Katie Terhune brought home the Iola Community Theatre Award for her work in the ICT production of “Annie” last fall.
Students who participated in forensics competitions throughout the school year were recognized, most notably Olivia Bannister and Prall, who brought home Iola’s third consecutive IDA state championship.
Iola has become so renowned for its improvisational skills, it’s earned the nickname “IDA-ville,” noted drama instructor Regina Chriestenson.
