WPGA Drama Students Shine at Star Fest Nationals

Twelve WPGA drama students spent the weekend at UBC participating in Star Fest Nationals, an inspiring celebration of theatre, creativity, and performance. Friday and Saturday were filled with workshops led by industry professionals, giving students the opportunity to deepen their skills and collaborate with peers from across the country. Saturday evening concluded with a devised performance created through the workshops, featuring Amos Zhu ’29 and Reyna Li ’29 performing in front of more than 400 students, followed by the festival’s awards ceremony.

WPGA students represented the school with exceptional talent and courage. Rachel Jia ’27 earned a perfect score and received a $60,000 scholarship offer from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, along with a $5,000 scholarship from The Story Institute. Shanell Burns ’27 also achieved a perfect score and was awarded a $5,000 scholarship from The Story Institute. Reyna Li ’29 received a perfect score for her two contrasting monologues, while Victoria Sun ’27 earned an Advanced standing for her monologue performances. Candice Geng ’28 was awarded Advanced for her stage management presentation and portfolio work for Mamma Mia!, with special thanks to Josh Hatt for mentoring her throughout the production process.

Amos Zhu ’29 and Matt Campbell ’27 also represented WPGA with passion and professionalism. One of the most meaningful aspects of Star Fest is its emphasis on personal growth rather than competition between students, encouraging each participant to strive for their own personal best. The weekend was a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to step onto a stage with authenticity and vulnerability, and of the supportive community that the arts create.

Congratulations to all of our performers for sharing their talents with such dedication and heart.