WGHS Theater Grows as a Group at Thescon 2026

This past weekend, thespians all over Georgia traveled to Columbus where the annual Thescon Conference was held. Students share what they love about Thescon and dramatic arts here at WG and how they strive to make their acting skills grow. 
by Makenzie Bass

Caylyn Hill (12) said, “My favorite part of Thescon was the shows I got to see. It’s so beautiful to see other high school students share their love and passion for the same thing I do.”

Maddox Daher (11) added, “My favorite part of Thescon was the ‘breaking into show business’ workshop. Essentially what it was is we all sat down in a room with somebody who is a professional actor in Atlanta and he gave us the step-by-step guide on how to become an actor in Atlanta, and the stuff we should and shouldn't do. Overall, it was crazy insightful on what I need to do if I want to try to make it big in Atlanta.”

Genia Wilson (11) said Thescon helped prepare her for their upcoming spring musical, High School Musical Jr., by “... putting perspective on how good high schoolers can actually be in a musical and it made me want to work harder because everyone was so talented there.”

Ms. Amanda Gibson, director of theatrical and dramatic arts here at Walnut Grove, said Thescon helped her prepare as a director. Gibson said, “I was able to sit in on a couple classes that explained a little bit more about the theatrical side of producing a musical. Most of the workshops are geared towards the students. There is a conference for educators in August that really helps us out, but Thescon always helps me get some good ideas from my fellow directors by getting some new inspiration.”

Mackenzie Ragan (12) is a senior officer of the troupe. She said, “I do leadership, and I feel like it helped me with leadership skills like communication and how I interact with people. I made a lot of new friends there and learned a lot of new things.”

Jackson Knight said Thescon helped him by, “[learning] a lot more about the lighting software thanks to all the technicians I met while at Thescon, which will help me to better use the lighting software we use at WGHS.”

“Honestly, I don’t think about it. I try to block out anything and everything until I step onto stage,” Nevaeh Bryant (12) said when asked how she prepares for her roles.

Caylyn Hill (12) added, “To prepare for shows, I remind myself that when I get on the stage, I’m not Caylyn, I'm my character. I also remember that I am doing this to entertain other people. Reviewing your lines and movements is also very important to put on a good show.”

All the thespians took this time at the conference to dive deeper into their characters and grow into mature actors and actresses. Whether they are looking at a career in acting or this is just a hobby for them, they are working hard every day to bring a lovely show to WG this spring.