Drama teacher John Copeland along with Spanish teacher Siri Campbell and English teacher Kristen Huang took 20 students to Thescon Jan. 5-7 in Wichita, KS. Seniors Jameson Beran, Asa Esparza, Finn Campbell, Carter Harvey and Brayden Heath made up the five-person improv team. Thescon is a convention where thespians in Kansas can attend classes and seminars in tech, costuming and singing to help improve their performances. While there, thespians can also compete in singing and acting competitions known as “thespy’s” and audition for scholarship opportunities.

Senior Asa Esparza describes what she did daily while she was at the festival and what everything she took part in provided for her.

“I went to the acting and improv workshops that were offered during the day so that I could help to improve my performances,” Esparaza said. “Every night we saw shows, such as “Big Fish,” “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” “The Play That Goes Wrong” and “Silent Sky.” Through watching these shows we were able to appreciate the effort other schools put into their performances.”

Senior Carter Harvey, expands on how he believes they did and what they could’ve done better.

“I think my team did pretty well because we got second overall in the competition,” Harvey said. “In the final round of the competition, they pick a random game that you have to play. I think that overall we could’ve just known the game a little better.”

Esparza explains her favorite part about getting to go to Thescon and why she appreciated the opportunity to compete in the improv thespy. 

“It was nice to get to spend time with people who share your interests and professionals who can help you learn and improve your skills,” Esparza said. “I enjoy making people laugh so it was fun to compete in the improv competition and make the audience laugh.” 

Harvey shares the advice he has gained from his experiences in the improv competitions.

“Go up there and have fun. Make sure that you have confidence in yourself,” Harvey said. “Have good communication with your team during the competition and make sure that you are prepared for all the games they could throw at you.”