TORRINGTON – Goshen County High School theater students gathered this past week at the Torrington High School auditorium for the 2025 Theatre Awards. The event was led by Lingle music teacher Erin Jesperson and emceed by seniors Elias Bustamante and Madison Copenbarger. 

Students who had attended the Wyoming State Thespian Festival were recognized for winning the Tech Olympics, an achievement earned by receiving high scores in multiple competitions. Students who received other awards at the state festival were also recognized, along with those who qualified to attend the International Thespian Festival next month in Indiana.

One of the evening’s most celebrated moments was the induction of new members into the prestigious Troupe 757. To qualify for membership, students must accumulate a certain number of points through participation in multiple productions. Each production requires a significant amount of time and energy, so being a member reflects dedication, growth, and passion for the performing arts. The newest inductees include Lillith Beck, Aubreeana Briggs, Jordin Eutsler, Hadassah Huntington, Brooklyn Mackenzie, Breck Shannon, Karis Walker, Kiera Fleenor, Paula Jenkins, Amathyst Parrelli, Brody Harrison, Kay Read and Allen Rose.

The evening then moved on to the 18th Annual Duckie Award announcements. The Duckies are decided by student vote, and winners receive rubber ducks as trophies for each category. From compelling solo acts to ensemble musicals, the Duckie Awards celebrated a range of performances that made the 2024–2025 season unforgettable. Aubreeana Briggs received the award for Outstanding Monologue – Fall, while Keegan Black, Elias Bustamante and Randy Jenkins earned Outstanding Group Acting. The award for Outstanding Group Musical went to a vibrant ensemble cast including Keegan Black, Elias Bustamante, Madison Copenbarger, Ty Fogle, Randy Jenkins, Kay Read, Allen Rose, Vanessa Shepherd, Tashara Sinner and Mason Wilkes.

Bustamante and Fogle took home top musical honors as Outstanding Lead Actor and Actress, respectively, and Callie Martin shone in both solo and group vocal categories. Notably, Black and Martin also earned Outstanding Male and Female Actor in the One Act performances. Technical and creative excellence were also on full display, with awards going to Wilkes for Outstanding Crew Member, Avery Hunter for Outstanding Tech Design, and Sinner for Outstanding Set Construction.

The Duckie Awards also recognized students who have gone above and beyond in their respective classes, earning the title of Distinguished Actor. These awards highlight students who consistently lead by example, demonstrate remarkable growth and contribute significantly to the troupe’s success. Briden Resig was named Distinguished Freshman and also received the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical. Distinguished Sophomore honors went to Nora Jespersen, who also earned recognition for Outstanding Show Tech in Fiddler on the Roof. For the junior class, both Kaylee Johnson and Sawyer Massie were awarded Distinguished Junior. Johnson had an outstanding year, winning both Outstanding Acting Duet – Fall and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. Massie stood out for his talents in both writing and performance, winning Outstanding Script Writing and Outstanding Character Role in a Musical. Copenbarger, a key contributor to multiple award-winning productions, was named Distinguished Senior. She was featured in the Outstanding Group Musical, honored for her work in Outstanding Show Tech for Fiddler and was part of the trio recognized for Outstanding Duet/Trio in a Musical.

The students also recognized Christine Quillen, longtime theater sponsor, who is retiring from the Goshen County School District. Jesperson credits much of the success of the theater program to Quillen. 

“Christine Quillen essentially rebuilt Troupe 757 and the high school theatre program. Her passion for educational theatre is unparalleled. The students and directing staff have the greatest respect for her and rely on her knowledge and creativity to carry us forward. Chris has been the heart and soul of our theatre program for over 15 years, and we have been so lucky to have her lead the troupe. I am excited for her to get some relaxation and be a supportive audience member, and I know that if we ever need any guidance, she will be right there for us. An educator may retire, but they will never stop educating,” Jesperson said.

The awards night was both a celebration of the students’ successes and a testament to the support from school staff, parents and the community. From freshmen just beginning their journey on stage to seasoned seniors with numerous productions under their belts, Goshen County High School theater students have much to be proud of this year.