South Tx. Summer Musical Encores gives first scholarships

Contributed Photo Tara Wright, David Hathway, Erin English, Michael Deggs, and (not pictured) Katy Rice, each received a scholarship from the non-profit South Texas Summer Musical Encores! The non-profit theatre organization gave $3,250 in college scholarships.

Thoroughly Modern Millie, the first production of South Texas Summer Musical Encores! wowed Wharton County theatergoers this summer! According to Nathan Hand, an El Campo native with a degree in theater, and the artistic director of the organization, "South Texas Summer Musical Encores! was formed earlier this year with the main purpose being to provide scholarships for students majoring in the performing arts and secondarily to provide the area with Broadway level entertainment."

Betty Webb, administrative vice-president of the organization said, "We were extremely pleased with the outstanding support we received during this year's production which ran for 8 performances in July. The attendance and donations outpaced our expectations, making it possible for us to award more money in scholarships this first year. On Aug. 7 we awarded $3,250 in college scholarships during our awards ceremony at J Brew Coffee Bar and Studio in El Campo, which is $2000 more than we hoped to offer in our first year."

Amber Barbee, secretary of the organization, said, "The scholarships were awarded as follows: David Hathway and Michael Deggs of El Campo each received a $750 scholarship, while Tara Wright of League City and Erin English of Wharton each received $625, and Katy Rice of El Campo received a $500 scholarship."

"To be eligible for the scholarships, graduating high school seniors must participate in South Texas Summer Musical Encores! Summer production, plan to major in some area of the Performing Arts, complete an application, and write an essay. The scholarship committee then evaluates each applicant. This year we had five graduating seniors and we are so pleased to have been able to provide each one with a scholarship," said Barbee.

"We are working on securing rights and royalties for our 2008 production already and will make an announcement as soon as they are secured," Hand added. "Wharton County is bursting with talent, so we know next year's show will not disappoint."

Open auditions for anyone 15 and older will be held in the late spring for the July 2008 show.

South Texas Summer Musical Encores! is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization. Tax-deductible donations can bemailed toPOBox1149,El Campo, Texas 77437.