Many aspiring young actors and actresses long for the chance to perform on stage. They long for applause and the feeling of accomplishment. Few actors actually receive the full appreciation they feel they deserve.

An actor on campus was awarded a claim to fame at Fresno City College’s 25th Annual Valley Invitational Theatre Festival at Fresno City College on April 9. Greg Tharpe, ’04, performed with two other students in a “A Conversation with my Dogs.”

Tharpe portrayed one of two dogs on stage who constantly followed their owner hoping for a handout of food. The owner, played by Lacy Hearnsberger, ’03, complained that the dogs only liked her for her food and not for companionship.

Tharpe has been involved in drama on campus for two years and felt honored for his performance.

“It’s really awesome that I got recognition and an award,” Tharpe said. “I mean I love to act so getting an award for it is just icing on the cake.”

Drama adviser Tom McEntee was unavailable for comment after the performance as he and his wife Julie flew to St. Louis for a conferernce. McEntee said he will comment when he returns to Fresno on April 26.

Paul Kinear, ’06, was the other dog who performed with Tharpe in the short skit. Previously, “A Conversation with my Dogs” had been performed on campus in chapel.

“After high school I aspire to be an actor in Hollywood and see my name in lights,” Tharpe said. “I plan on acting and building on the talent God has given me.”

The drama class is currently working on a new drama, “This is a Test” by Stephen Greg. The play is directed by Hearnsberger and will be performed on campus on May 8.

Those interested in the drama department should contact McEntee in the office at 297-9464, ext. 126.