Kearney High School Theatre students represented our district with creativity, poise and heart at the MSHSAA Class 1 District 8 competition on Tuesday, March 17, at Excelsior Springs High School.

Competing in one of the state’s toughest districts, our Bulldogs delivered strong performances in both categories. Kearney’s Reader’s Theatre, *Happy Birthday," with an original script written by KHS Theatre Director Haley Kernes, earned third place out of seven entries, finishing just one point shy of advancing to state. The department’s one-act production of *Anne of Green Gables* placed fifth out of nine outstanding performances.

These results reflect a tremendous amount of hard work, preparation and talent. From the originality and energy of *Happy Birthday* to the thoughtful storytelling of *Anne of Green Gables," our students represented Kearney with excellence.

“I was especially proud of the way our students trusted the work and supported one another throughout the day,” said Ms. Kernes. “Theatre asks young people to be vulnerable, disciplined and brave all at once, and they rose to that challenge in a beautiful way.”

Congratulations to all of our KHS Theatre students on an outstanding showing. We are proud of the way you continue to share your gifts and bring stories to life.