The Acting Troupe of Lambert (ATL) recently took the stage at the Georgia High School Association’s One-Act Competition, where each school in the region condenses a full-length play into a shorter 55-minute performance. With only 15 minutes to set up all technical elements, the event demands quick thinking and adaptability. ATL performed at the FoCAL Center, which presented extra challenges, as the acting troupe had to adapt to a larger stage, different technical equipment and an audience much larger than usual.
The team performed a condensed version of the beloved “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and placed third in the competition. There were several individual cast members who were recognized for their impressive performances. Junior Madeline Hansen was recognized as “Best Supporting Actress” and seniors Roger Wang and Reshma Mopur were recognized as “All Star Cast” members.
“The goal we were working towards the most was to tell the story clearly,” junior Madeline Hansen shared. “In theater, it is so important for the audience to be able to understand and empathize with the story they are watching.”
While the thought of victory was exciting to the group, their main goal was to put together a cohesive story within a limited timeframe. Each and every character, setting and major plot point had to be thought out and executed flawlessly.
For ATL members, the experience wasn’t just about the performance; it was also about bonding with other theater enthusiasts across the region and witnessing each school’s unique take on their favorite productions. The experience offered the students a unique opportunity to step away from the rigor of competition and make lasting connections with fellow thespians.
“My favorite part of One-Act is getting to watch other schools’ shows,” Hansen said. “It’s so inspiring to see what other students in our region bring to the stage and to share this experience with them.”
The competition served as a learning experience for Lambert’s troupe, as they received valuable feedback from the judges that will guide their future productions. Lambert’s play was praised for its strong chemistry between cast members and technical precision, and the performers left the competition feeling proud and excited for their upcoming productions.
This year’s competition was truly memorable for ATL members. It not only gave them a chance to develop their skills, but also allowed students to connect with each other and with the greater theater community. ATL keeps us eagerly waiting for the full length “How to Succeed in Business without Trying”, which will run from December 12 to 14. As ATL members continue to work hard for the rest of the semester, they hope to strengthen their craft and share their passion for performing arts with the community.
