Brianna Naderpour 
By Brianna Naderpour and Elizabeth Carres
FEB 27, 2017
St. Thomas Aquinas’ (STA) students have many opportunities to pursue their passions and interests through a variety of extracurricular activities and programs. One of these outstanding activities is the drama program. Pastries, Pies, and Performances is a fundraising event where the STA Thespians impressed the audience with many of the pieces that were performed at the District Thespian Competition and Festival. The funds raised will supplement the cost for the STA Thespians’ trip to the State Thespian Competition and Festival in Tampa.
On February 16, this event took place in the cafeteria from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. For the very reasonable price of five dollars, attendees were treated to an evening of fine entertainment. Revenue from delicious treats, beverages, and raffle tickets contributed to the fundraising. True to its title, a variety of pies, brownies, marshmallow cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, pumpkin pasties, as well as other sweet treats were offered.
An 11-act showcase, raffle and induction of students into the International Thespian Honor Society rounded out the evening. The audience, which included parents, students and faculty, was very impressed by the Thespians’ performances. Senior Luke Frasier said, “It is wonderful to be able to see the talent possessed by some of my peers. I enjoyed admiring and absorbing this culture.” STA theology teacher Mr. Patrick O’Dea said, “I loved everything! The quality performances, the delicious food, the enthusiasm of the drama students and their love and support for each other.” The performers did a great job of capturing the attention and admiration of their audience.
The turnout was amazing! It exceeded the expectations of many of the performers that worked to make the night a success. Thespian Brian Sayer said, “… we ended up having to bring out more chairs to accommodate such a large turnout. I’m very happy and proud of all of my fellow Thespians for their hard work and dedication.” Performer Emma Seeger said, “It was the most people that have ever come to Pastries, Pies, and Performances, and we are truly grateful to all who came!”
The performers were happy to share their District Thespian Competition and Festival pieces with the audience. Performer Alanna Quiton said, “It was great to perform for such an enthusiastic crowd! Also, since I am not performing at Thespian States, I thought my performance at Districts would be the last time I would perform my piece. It was nice to have one more performance.” These aspiring actors dazzled the audience with a variety of performances that included solos, monologues, and even a group pantomime.
At the end of the night, new members were inducted into the International Thespian Honor Society. It was an exciting moment for them. Alexandra Garner said, “It felt really good to be inducted… because it meant that I was officially part of a group that has the same passion as me.” Jeannette Circe said, “It felt amazing to be inducted. Spending my time with such amazing and talented people gives me something to look forward to each day. There’s no place I’d rather be than with my Thespian family.”
Pastries, Pies, and Performances was a huge hit for the STA Thespians. With the support of the Raider community, they raised just under $2,000 to help sponsor their trip to the State Competition. The Raider community congratulates the Thespians on their accomplishments and wishes them the best of luck at the upcoming competitions.
