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. While working to achieve recognition for their talent, the drama continues to strive for perfection for future performances.

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 a monologue called, “Ali, The Wonder Boy.” 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. I plan on continuing to develop this talent God has given me and after high school, I aspire to act in Hollywood.”

Along with Tharpe, the drama class also performed the drama, “A Conversation with my Dogs” starring Lacy Hearnsberger, ’03, and Paul Kinear, ’06. Previously, the drama had been performed on campus in chapel.

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 9 and at 7 p.m. in Ground Zero.

“It’s great to end the year with a student-directed piece,” Tom McEntee, drama teacher, said. “Lacy is the perfect student for this type of thing. I’ve worked with her for two years now on a total of four one-act pieces and several additional skits and scenes. She’s ready to take the helm and she’s doing a good job.”

McEntee is hoping for the momentum the drama class built up this year to carry over into the fall.

“Next year is the next step,” McEntee said. “A few students have made commitments to return and I look forward to working with them. The junior high drama program has many hopeful actors coming up from the junior high which will complete the group.”

A trip to Ashland, Oregon is in the works for the group next year. It would allow the students to take in some Shakespeare in one of the premiere locations in the country. Plans will be finalized this summer and the trip will take place in September. For more information on the trip, contact McEntee at 297-9464 ext. 134.