William Mason High School Production of Noises Off wins Play of the Year.

On May 23, 2009 at the annual Cappies Gala at the Aronoff Center, William Mason High School’s Theater Department’s production of Noises Off received the “Best Play” award for the 2008-2009 theater season.  Other Mason students winning awards for their work in Noises Off at the gala include senior Mackenzie Touby who won “Best Comic Actress” for her portrayal of Brooke Ashton and senior Sam Rutherford who won “Best Comic Actor” for his portrayal of Selsdon Mowbray.  Other students recognized at the gala as nominees include: Stevi Branch, Laura Davis, and Tara Traxler, nominated for their work on props crew for the show;  Brandon Florea and Cameron Powell for their Sound Design; Woody Goldsmith was nominated for both his Set Design and as Featured Actor; Renee Rabenold for Lead Actress in a Play; and Matt Van Slyke as Lead Actor in a Play.  Four other students were commended for their work with the production:  Katie Turfan, Ashley Posik, Shelby Hamet, and Gianna Mocilnikar. 

The Critics and Awards program, or Cappies, began in the Cincinnati Area in 2000 to recognize students for excellence in the theater arts.  Student critics from each participating school attend performances and vote at the end of the year to determine the nominations and winners. Mason has participated in the program since the beginning.  Noises Off marks the first time that William Mason High School has won the “Best Play” award.