On May 9th, 2007, the 4th Annual Thespian Inductions and the 2nd annual Edgie Awards took place. Seventeen candidates were inducted, including two freshmen; that’s more than Desert Edge has ever seen in one year!

Recognizing the Honor Thespians was the first event that took place that evening. Ashley Silvester, Michelle White, Britney Childers, Elisa Gomez and Christopher De La Paz were awarded the Honor Thespian position, each with 60 points or more.

Then it was time to induct the seventeen newest Thespians. Among these people were seniors Johannah Holland, Aaron Taylor and Stacie Flannigan. The Honor Thespians called their names, said a few words about the person’s accomplishments, and the new member received a medal presented to them by Mr. Beal, along with a candle which they carried back to their seats. When everyone received a medal and candle, they recited the Thespian oath and blew out their candles together.

After the inductions had been completed, the 2nd annual Edgie Awards were presented. This ceremony isn’t unlike the Oscars we watch every year. The awards were as follows: Best Line Delivered on Stage, Best Chemistry on Stage, Best Techie, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress in a One-Act Play, Best Supporting Actor in a One-Act Play, Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Walk-On Performance, Most Improved and Best Break-Out Performance.

And the Edgie goes to…

Most Improved: Emmanuel Espinoza

Best Walk-On Performance: D’asia Tate, The Least Offensive Play in the Whole Darn World.

Best Break-Out Performance: Nisha Maczura, The Disappearance of Daniel Hand.

Best Techie: Ashley Silvester

Best Chemistry on Stage: Britney Childers and Alex Merrill, The Least Offensive Play in the Whole Darn World.

Best Supporting Actor in a One-Act Play: Mike Porcelli, Counting to Infinity

Best Supporting Actress in a One-Act Play: Sheridan Wood, The Least Offensive Play in the Whole Darn World.

Best Director: Elisa Gomez, Counting to Infinity

Best Actor: Christopher De La Paz

Best Actress: Sheridan Wood

Mr. Beal then presented Christopher De La Paz the Thespian of the Year Award and Elisa Gomez with an award for excellent achievement for her involvement in Cutting Edge and in theatre classes. Both will have a name plate that will hang in our main building for all to see.

As fast as it had come, the Thespian inductions and the Edgies ended. The evening had been filled with laughter, tears and silly speeches that were made on the spot.

For the seniors who were inducted, and the senior thespians that are leaving this year, don’t worry about keeping Cutting Edge alive; it looks like it’s in good hands with the new inducted thespians.

Congratulations inductees!