HHCA Theater delivered another outstanding performance at the SCISA State Drama Festival and One-Act Competition on Thursday, November 13, 2025, earning two State Championships, Best Actor, and Best Actress in one of the most competitive festivals in recent years, extending the school's legacy of excellence on the statewide stage. Both casts arrived prepared and ready to represent HHCA well. Their hard work showed on stage. 

Upper School – State Champions (Four Years Running!)

The Upper School cast, directed by Mrs. Michelle McElroy Cox, presented a cutting from Over the River and Through the Woods and earned first place for the fourth consecutive year, continuing HHCA’s strong record of statewide success. The cast also swept the top acting honors. Luke Strebe, who played Nick Cristano, was named Best Actor, and Jetts Nelson, who played Aida Gianelli, earned Best Actress.

This group has shown remarkable dedication, pouring themselves into this story all season. It was it was exciting to see them bring that same passion to the festival stage.

- Mrs. Michelle McElory-Cox, HHCA Assistant Fine Arts Director

Pictured (left to right): Noah Berry, Luke Strebe, Michelle McElory-Cox, Addi Rogers, Jetts Nelson, Amelia Lockhart. Not Pictured: Eli Taylor, Sadie Marcotte, and Luke Williams.

The Upper School Cast included:

• Nick Cristano – Luke Strebe
• Frank Gianelli – Noah Berry
• Aida Gianelli – Jetts Nelson
• Nunzio Cristano – Eli Taylor
• Emma Cristano – Amelia Lockhart
• Caitlin O’Hare – Addi Rogers
• Stage Managers – Luke Williams and Sadie Marcotte

Jetts Nelson, who played Aida Gianelli and was named Upper School Best Actress, with Luke Strebe, who played Nick Cristano and earned Upper School Best Actor.

Middle School – State Champions (Back-to-Back!)

The Middle School cast, directed by Mrs. Lori West, performed How to Get Away with a Murder Mystery and earned first place for the second year in a row. This was Mrs. West’s first time leading HHCA’s Middle School group for this competition, though she brings years of experience to the role. The cast shared a preview performance with parents the night before the festival and will perform again for their peers later this week.

I’m so proud of this group. They worked hard and supported one another. To see them step into their roles so confidently was a gift, and I’m grateful we had the chance to share their work with families before the festival.

- Mrs. Lori West, Middle School One-Act Competition Director

This marks an exciting chapter for HHCA’s young performers, who continue to grow in talent and stage presence:

• Narrator 1 – Chloe Priester
• Narrator 2 – Catherine Rushing
• Lady Indigo – Clara McKiddie
• Mr. Burgundy – Campbell Taylor
• Agent Orange – Vivian Judd
• Off-White – Campbell Guscio
• Soylent Green – Caroline Maxey
• An Elderly Woman – Keyla Yelton
• A British Detective – Caleb Craddock
• A Frazzled Lady – Keyla Yelton
• A Butler – Caleb Craddock
• Vick Tim – Sadie Jenkins
• Sound Technician – Juan Wilches-Cuervo

How to Get Away with a Murder Mystery" Middle School Cast (named above).

Continuing a Strong Tradition

Over the last several years, HHCA Theater has earned multiple SCISA State Championships, top acting honors, and recognition for excellence in performance and storytelling. This year’s double victory and acting sweep add to a legacy that inspires students across all grade levels to explore their gifts in the arts.

Please join us in congratulating HHCA Theater on another exceptional success!