The West Henderson High School Theatre Department has once again demonstrated its exceptional talent and dedication with its moving performance of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, presented at the NCTC One-Act Play Festival. Their hard work and artistic excellence have earned them top honors at the state level and a coveted invitation to the national competition in Chattanooga, Tennessee this March.
A Performance That Touched the Audience
From the opening moments of the production, it was clear that this was a special performance. Cole Reasoner delivered an unforgettable portrayal of Edward, capturing the character’s emotional depth and transformation with remarkable nuance. His performance earned him a well-deserved Excellence in Acting award.
While Gabriel Gonzalez brought warmth and charm to Lucy the Dog, the emotional landscape of the production was shaped powerfully by several other standout performances as well. Caroline Frampton, as the Traveler, guided the audience through Edward’s journey with grace and presence, while Sutton Hughes offered a heartfelt and grounded portrayal of Abeline. These are only a few of the standout work from the show.
Perhaps one of the most affecting moments of the evening came from Nylah Fair in the role of Sarah Ruth, the dying child whose tenderness and fragility pulled at everyone’s heartstrings. Her performance added a depth of emotion that lingered long after the final scene.
Every cast member contributed meaningfully to the journey, and the ensemble’s connection on stage elevated the story’s themes of love, loss, and rediscovery. As an audience member, I found myself deeply moved from beginning to end, and I honestly had tears in my eyes as the story unfolded.
Outstanding Achievements at NCTC
The Honors NCTC Theatre class received several distinguished awards at the state competition:
- Excellence in Production Design for Music – Hayden Eckenberg
- Excellence in Acting – Cole Reasoner and Caroline Frampton
- Excellence in Directing – Matthew Parent and Kelly Cooper
- Distinguished Play Audience Choice Award
These honors underscore the creativity, discipline, and passion that define West Henderson’s theatre program. Under the leadership of co-director Kelly Cooper and student director Matthew Parent, the production brought together thoughtful storytelling, strong performances, and artistic detail.
Heading to Nationals
West Henderson will represent North Carolina at the national competition, a moment that stands as one of the most significant achievements in the program’s history. The magnitude of this honor is impossible to overstate. For these students—who have poured their hearts, late nights, and unwavering passion into this production—this opportunity is nothing short of monumental!!!
Their advancement is not merely a step forward; it is a testament to the emotional power they brought to the stage and the artistic excellence that defines this department. This is a huge deal for West Henderson Theatre, for the school, and for the entire community that has watched these performers grow into the remarkable artists they have become.
However, taking a show to nationals comes with significant expenses. The cost for travel, lodging, and production needs exceeds $15,000. The theatre department is seeking community support to help make this opportunity possible for these dedicated students.
How to Support the Cast
Those who wish to contribute can donate through the official GiveButter campaign:
Every donation, large or small, helps ensure that these talented young artists can share their work on a national stage.
As an additional way to support their journey, I will personally donate all profits from any purchased images from this performance directly to their fundraising campaign. It is an honor to contribute to these students and their incredible accomplishment.
A Celebration of Art, Heart, and Hard Work
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is a story about transformation through love and loss, and the West Henderson Theatre Department captured that spirit beautifully. Their success at NCTC is a testament not only to their skill, but to the heart they bring to their craft.
As they prepare for nationals, the community has an opportunity to stand behind them and celebrate this remarkable achievement. Their journey, much like Edward’s, is one defined by courage, connection, and hope.
Congratulations to all the cast and support teams. Your accomplishment here is simply amazing, and I wish you all the best as you continue your competition. Good luck to you!
Full Cast and Production Team Recognition
The success of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane would not have been possible without the remarkable ensemble of students who brought this story to life. Each performer and crew member played a vital role in creating a moving and memorable production.
Cast
- Traveler – Caroline Frampton
- Edward – Cole Reasoner
- Abeline – Sutton Hughes
- Pellegrina – Natalia Husted
- Father – Jake McCrimmon
- Martin – Colson Ross
- Amos – Kiersten Cole
- Lawrence – Obie Greene
- Lolly – Railey Luce
- Nellie – Jillian Brown
- Bull the Hobo – Hayden Eckenberg
- Hobo 1 – Sutton Hughes
- Hobo 2 – Allyce Alexander
- Hobo 3 – Lillie Thompson
- Hobo 4 – Colson Ross
- Watchman – Mya Seward
- Old Lady – Adryanne Redfern
- Bryce – Braydn Ross
- Sarah Ruth – Nylah Fair
- Marlene – Sadie Ford
- Neal – Gabe Gonzalez
- Doll Mender – A.J. Briggs
- Old Doll – Annalise Youmans
Production Team
- Sound Designer – Melanie Dowers
- Lighting Designer – Caleb Marshall
- Musicians – Hayden Eckenberg and Jillian Brown
- Directors – Kelly Cooper and Matthew Parent
Their combined talent, dedication, and teamwork made this production an unforgettable experience for audiences and a proud moment for the West Henderson High School Theatre Department.
Thanks for your support! Prints are available, and watermark-free downloads are also available for just $5! This goes to support future coverage for your favorite teams!
