VHS One Act Play Places At State Competition

Performing the Region 2AA Championship play 'Ruby's Story,' the VHS performers placed 4th in the GHSA AA State Championship held Saturday, November 27, in Forsyth.

It was the first time a Vidalia performance has placed in State competition, (One Act Play, which became a stand-alone GHSA event in 1999, was previously part of Literary) and Vidalia Director/ Coach Margaret Pournelle, who is in her 17th year, said, 'It's hard for me to put into words how excited, grateful, and proud I am to have placed at state one act play competition this year for the first time in my career!'

Pournelle, who has been a part of eight straight region championships and nine total, said that after not placing last year, the group was motivated. 'This is the ninth year I have taken a team to State, and the first time we have ever placed. After last year's disappointment of not placing, this particular group and I set a goal to place this year, and we all put in more work than ever, maintaining the mental focus needed. I can honestly say this is the hardest that I—or any group I've had—has ever worked on a production.'

Sophomore Shannon Collins, who portrayed 'Rose,' was named to the All-Star Cast for her portrayal.

Pournelle said that this achievement is a 'testament to the kids and their hard work.” She noted, 'Our kids don't have access to as much theater instruction in our area as some others in the State. That means they are working from behind and must work extra hard. This recognition is a testament to these phenomenal kids who are a part of the VHS One Act Play Cast and Crew of 2021 and to the Lord Jesus, Who carried me through this demanding season, as He always does! To Him be the glory!

Vidalia Principal John Sharpe added, 'I am so proud for Ms. Pournelle, the cast and crew. It is a testament to their hard work over the last four months.'

Pournelle added that she is 'grateful' for the help and guidance of Coertze Peters. 'We are also so grateful for the help of Coertze Peters, who worked with us on many fine details and that helped us reach our goal.'

SPECIAL RECOGNITION — Sophomore Shannon Collins, above right, who portrayed ‘Rose,’ was named to the All-Star Cast for her portrayal. Shown here with her coach Margaret Pournelle, Collins displays the certificate of merit she received last week during the GHSA AA State Championship in Forsyth.