Kearney High School, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Kearney High School is proud to announce that its Thespian Troupe will represent the school at the statewide Nebraska Thespian Festival, held Thursday through Saturday, Jan. 8–10, in Omaha.
Thirty KHS students will participate in performances, technical competitions, and improvisation challenges alongside peers from across the state. The group will be accompanied by Theatre Director Vicky DeWald, Music Director Clayton Moyer, and Lead Technician Beauna Thammathai.
Several KHS Thespians have been selected to perform in or serve on the technical crew for the All-State Production of TRAP by Stephen Gregg:
• Tech Crew: Ammi Meyer (Co-Stage Manager), Jessica Moulton (Lighting)
• Performers: Carter Akers, Ava Benner, Addison Jezbera
Technical Theatre Competitions (BACKStage Challenges)
The KHS Technical Team will compete in a series of backstage challenges, showcasing precision, teamwork, and technical skill:
• Team Members: Calista Meyer (Captain), Anna Velander, Charlotte White, Charlie Bonk, Jessica Moulton, Vivien Long
• Events:
o Audio – Cable Relay
o Costuming – Quick Change
o Lighting – Hang and Focus
o Stage – Prop Shift
o Scenic – Set Tape Down
Improvisation Challenges
The KHS improv team, “After Curfew,” will compete in multiple improvisation events:
• Team Members: Kathryn Moulton (Co-Captain), Cooper Lange (Co-Captain), Ava Gensler, Carter Akers, Jackson Waller, Jonas Brandt, Stella Harbols, Stormey Davie
• Events: Qualifying Improv Scene, Superheroes, Pan Left, Waterfall Monologue
Individual Performance
Senior Carter Akers will also compete individually in the Musical Theatre Thespy category at the 2026 festival, performing “Grow For Me” from Little Shop of Horrors.
Public Tickets
Parents and community members not attending the festival may purchase tickets to view select performances or the final showcase on Saturday.
Tickets are $15 and can be purchased through Ticket Omaha by searching “Thespian Festival.” The final showcase lineup will be announced Friday evening, but tickets may still be purchased in advance at the $15 rate.
Kearney Public Schools congratulates all participating Thespians and wishes them the very best at the state festival.
