WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University Theatre Program returned from the American College Theatre Festival (ACTF) Region 2 with significant recognitions, enhanced training experiences, and a renewed sense of purpose, affirming the program’s commitment to artistic growth, collaboration, and learning.

The WLU fall production of Animal Farm was recommended for festival consideration and received a Certificate of Merit for Outstanding Ensemble, recognizing the dedication, discipline, and collaborative spirit of the student artists involved.

“At West Liberty University, we don’t participate in ACTF to get awards,” said Michael Aulick, Professor of Theatre. “We go to learn, to train, to challenge ourselves, and to grow as artists and collaborators. There are no winners, and certainly no losers, in this program. These recognitions aren’t trophies we measure success by; they’re validation that the work, the process, and the commitment to learning are doing exactly what they should.”

This year, that work was clearly evident. WLU students received the following official ACTF Region 2 recognitions:

• Dramaturgy Newcomer – Best First-Time Dramaturg: Joy Deaton
• Properties Design – Honorable Mention: Morgan Tusing
• VASTA Award (Voice and Speech Trainers Association): Awarded to the Irene Ryan nominee or partner with the most developed and articulate voice – Teegan Pugh
• Outstanding Comedic Performance (Irene Ryan Auditions): Avery Hall and Teegan Pugh
• Allied Craft – National Selectee: Advancing to the national festival – Hannah Ellis
• Irene Ryan Runner-Up: Second-best Irene Ryan performance, with national festival attendance if the selectee is unable – Avery Hall

“While I am proud of the entire program, I was impressed by our Design, Technology, and Management students,” said Chris Rees, Assistant Professor of Theatre and Technical Director. “They presented their work to industry professionals, received valuable feedback, and gained insight into how to continue growing in a competitive field. What stood out most was their commitment not only to their own work as technicians, but to supporting the entire theatre program. I’m incredibly proud of their professionalism and excited to see what they do next.”

Beyond these certificates, student achievement extended even further:

• Four Irene Ryan acting pairs performed, with two advancing to the semifinals
• Four students were selected for the National Playwriting Project
• Multiple design students presented their work, articulated their creative process, and engaged in in-depth conversations about design, storytelling, and collaboration
• Students participated fully in workshops throughout the week—experimenting, asking thoughtful questions, and leaving energized by the generosity and depth of the training offered

Throughout the five-day festival, faculty members from across the region sought out WLU leadership to express how impressed they were by the professionalism, preparedness, and generosity of West Liberty students.

“What I’m perhaps most proud of,” Aulick added, “is the spirit our students brought with them. They supported one another and students from across the region, celebrated others’ work, and engaged in conversations that built community rather than competition. That kind of positivity helps create a healthy, collaborative culture of artistry—and it matters just as much as any recognition.”

Faculty members Chris Rees and Michael Aulick expressed deep pride in the students’ accomplishments and enthusiasm for carrying this momentum forward into the coming academic year.

For more information about the West Liberty University Theatre Program, please contact Michael Aulick at maulick@westliberty.edu or Christopher Rees at christopher.rees@westliberty.edu.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.

Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu