Cover Photo: 2026-2027 ITS Officers

On May 22, the Ursuline Academy Performing Arts Department welcomed students, families, and faculty for the International Thespian Society (ITS) Induction and Honors Ceremony alongside the 14th Annual Theatre Awards, celebrating a year of outstanding artistic achievement and dedication to the craft of theatre. The attire? Dress as a celebrity. 

The evening began with the formal induction ceremony facilitated by ITS student leaders. Under the direction of 2025-2026 ITS President Nina V. '26 and Vice President Ana-Maria R. '26, along with officers Siena A. '28, Hannah D. '27, Colette E. '28, and Madelaine G. '27, new members were welcomed into the International Thespian Society.

Students earn induction through significant commitment to the Theatre program, including participation in multiple productions, extensive rehearsal or technical hours, and successful completion of theatre coursework.

An additional Thespian honor was presented during the evening: a Medal of Achievement given at the discretion of the department to recognize exceptional service to Ursuline Theatre. While this distinction is awarded only on rare occasions, this year’s recipient exemplifies the level of dedication it is meant to honor.

Wren S. '26 was recognized for her outstanding contributions to the program throughout her time at Ursuline. Over the course of four years, she has worked on 14 productions, demonstrating remarkable versatility and commitment. Wren began her theatre journey on stage, performing in five productions, before discovering a passion for technical theatre in the scene shop.  She has since contributed extensively behind the scenes, serving on set construction, running crew - often as crew chief - and fly crew. In addition, she has taken on key leadership roles as Assistant Stage Manager and Stage Manager for four productions, and concluded her Ursuline theatre career as both a writer and director.

Two of the evening’s most meaningful awards were selected by peers, celebrating the character and spirit of Ursuline theatre students.

Performing Arts Department Chair Terri Ferguson  Most Enthusiastic Theatre Student was awarded to Madelaine G. '27, recognized for her energy, positivity, and       honours Wren S. '26 with Medal of Achievement.   unwavering support of her fellow performers and crew members.

Most Inspirational Senior was awarded to Nina V. '26, honoring her exceptional talent, leadership, mentorship, and lasting influence on the theatre community.

Members of the Theatre faculty also took time to recognize students who made a significant personal impact on them throughout the year,  highlighting the strong relationships that define the Ursuline Performing Arts program. 

Ms.Terri Ferguson  provided a preview of the upcoming theatre season, offering an exciting look at the productions ahead for Ursuline Theatre. The evening closed with a celebration of the senior class and a shared gratitude for the Ursuline Theatre community—capping off another exceptional year on stage.

Class of 2026 Theatre Bears.                                   

2026-2027 International Thespian Society Officers

2026 International Thespian Society Inductees

• Lucia C. '27
• Pearce K. '27
• Lillian M. '27
• Sophie S. '27
• Olivia H. '28
• Evelyn T. '28
• Sydney D. '29
• Eliza K. '29
• Elizabeth P. '29
• Adeline S. '29
• Elyse W. '29

Medal of Achievement 

• Wren S. '26

Most Enthusiastic Theatre Student Award

• Madelaine G. '27

Most Inspirational Senior Award

• Nina V. '26

Theatre Faculty Awards

• Fion H. '26 (Ms. Stephanie Butler)
• Lillian K. '26 (Ms. Whitney Coulter)
• Wren S. '26 (Ms. Lori Honeycutt)
• Nina V. '26 (Ms. Terri Ferguson)

These Shining Lives

She Stoops to Conquer

Oklahoma!

Ursuline/Jesuit Senior-Directed One-Acts 

2026-2027 Season

Moon Over Buffalo by Ken Ludwig

Directed by Ms. Lori Honeycutt. 

It’s the 1950s and stage actors George and Charlotte Hay know the spotlight on them is fading as they desperately try to hold on to their fame.  Each with differing visions of how their lives will play out, the revelation of George’s affair with a young starlet and a fateful call from the famous Frank Capra may just revive their careers as it ends their marriage. Playwright Ken Ludwig can serve up a farce like no one else with all the ingredients of a classic slapstick, mad-cap comedy.  Mayhem, backstage shenanigans, plenty of slamming doors (which are funny...at least on stage) and misunderstandings threaten to upend George and Charlotte’s futures. Strap in for a bumpy, hilarious ride in Buffalo, under the moonlight.

The Trojan Women by Euripedes

Directed by Ms. Stephanie Butler. 

The play explores the horrors of war, particularly its impact on women and children, the moral consequences of violence and hubris. The Trojan Women is a powerful tragedy that portrays the devastation of war through the eyes of its most vulnerable victims, emphasizing grief, loss, and the enduring human spirit amid catastrophe.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

One of the most enduring shows of all time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven siblings and the coat of many colors.