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The Dodgers were recently recognized for their talent, with three of their performers receiving the highest honor as Triple Threat winners.

As a group “Tuck Everlasting” – Everlasting received an award for outstanding musical theater production.

Mina DeJong, Owen Hamlow, Manuela Rodriguez and Michael Wagner were honored for outstanding actors in a leading role.

Abraham Fisher and Omarion Myers-Zimmerman received special recognition. The group was also honored for their community involvement.

-Submitted photo

Michael Wagner of Fort Dodge (center of photo) performs with the entire group at the Des Moines Civic Center.

“An outstanding performance in a leading role is not an automatic invitation to participate in the Triple Threat program,” said Lindey Krug, the musical’s theater director. “This year, our outstanding performers were required to submit audition material.

“Mina, Owen and Michael were all selected to participate.”

DeJong, Wagner and Hamlow received the Triple Threat award and performed at the Awards Showcase celebrating the students’ achievements at the Des Moines Civic Center in late May.

“Triple Threat was a phenomenal experience,” said Wagner. “This year’s Triple Threat program featured Iowa’s top 81 artists. During this program, we collaborated with New York and Broadway professionals to put together a medley of songs that was performed at the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards Showcase.”

Krug said the Dodgers also received permission to send two artists to perform either as the opening act or the finale of the evening. Manuela Rodriguez and Jayden Lennon had the privilege of performing on the final medley.

-Submitted photo

Mina DeJong and Michael Wagner of Fort Dodge perform at the Awards Showcase at the Des Moines Civic Center.

“I always have so much fun watching my students perform,” Krug said, “It’s special to see them on a bigger stage, surrounded by people who are also extremely talented, and knowing they can compete.”

“Michael, the only senior, pays such close attention to detail that you know he’s hitting the nail on the head every time. Mina carries herself with poise and grace. Owen’s stage presence is outstanding. And they can all sing at the top of their lungs.”

The highlight of the year is the professionally organized awards ceremony to recognize the students’ outstanding achievements.

Participating musical productions are professionally judged. Panels of educators and performing arts professionals (jurors) visit participating schools’ musicals and provide feedback on the performances of individual actors, the orchestra, the set, lighting, costumes and more. Teachers and students use these insights to make their next show even better. Participating schools have seen dramatic changes in skills, student enthusiasm and community support from year to year.

“Being a member of Triple Threat has not only helped me grow as an artist by working with professionals, but has also helped me make friends with talented people across the state,” DeJong said, “We were able to work with coaches and improve our skills while putting together a medley for the show.”

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with many talented people across Iowa.”

In his last musical at the FDSH, Wagner enjoyed the experience.

Wagner enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people with similar interests.

“While I was there, I met so many phenomenal people,” Wagner said: “On my first day of rehearsal, I was afraid it would be a competition to see who was the best – but I was completely wrong.

“Through this program I have met some of the kindest and most talented people I have ever met.”

The theme was musical theatre and it was an unforgettable evening surrounded by people who love acting.

“Everyone there had the same drive and love for musical theatre,” Wagner said, “Whether they specialized in dance, acting or singing, everyone had moments there to shine and show off their talent. Although rehearsals were intense, the teachers did a great job of making sure everyone was rested and having fun.”

“All in all, it was an incredible experience to perform with Iowa’s best artists and make friends that will last a lifetime.”

Hamlow enjoyed being part of the event.

“The audition for Triple Threat was very stressful, but it was worth it in the end,” Hamlow said, “I am so grateful for the opportunity to perform with so many great high school artists.

“Seeing how quickly others grasped choreography, singing and acting was a very inspiring experience.”

Hamlow, who has been performing since he was a child, had the chance to be among the best on one of the biggest stages.

“I have been performing in musicals since fourth grade and performing on such a big stage with others who share my love of theater was a dream come true,” Said Hamlow. “I am extremely grateful to Mr. (Matt) Drees and Ms. Krug for giving me the opportunity to perform and show what I can do.”