The Woodhaven Theatre Company once again proved its place among the best in the state, earning top honors at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association (MIFA) State Theatre Finals held last weekend.
Competing against the strongest programs from across Michigan, Woodhaven sent three productions to the 2026 State Theatre Finals and returned home with multiple awards, including a Division 1 Main Stage State Championship. The win marks Woodhaven’s fourth consecutive state title, a rare and remarkable accomplishment.
This year’s performances included:
A Short Play (new event): A Walrus in the Body of a Crocodile, student directed by Brooklynn Coleman
Division 1 Studio Production: Eurydice, student directed by Cooper Fondaw
Division 1 Main Stage Production: Wiley and the Hairy Man, student directed by Josephine Clemons
The Short Play earned the Bare Stage Brilliance Award, which included a small grant recognizing the creativity and effectiveness of minimalist staging. Eurydice placed second in the state in Division 1 Studio, while Wiley and the Hairy Man captured first place in Division 1 Main Stage, securing Woodhaven’s latest state championship title.
In addition to placement honors, Woodhaven students received numerous Excellent and Superior individual and company awards across performance, technical theatre, and overall production categories, highlighting the depth of talent both onstage and behind the scenes.
Beyond the awards, the weekend served as a powerful testament to the students’ dedication, leadership, and collaboration. All three productions were student directed, underscoring Woodhaven Theatre Company’s commitment to developing young leaders in the arts.
For the students, the experience was about far more than trophies.
“Art, beauty, love and sacrifice — an extremely rewarding experience showing the world what artists are capable of,” said Archer Brewer.
“It was truly a transformative, eye-opening experience,” added Rommel Richardson.
Cam Abel reflected on the intensity of the process, sharing, “The experience was demanding, but the payout heavily outweighed the cost. Growth waits on the other side of pressure.”
Josie Clayton emphasized the inclusive culture of the program. “It’s a class that thrives off of creativity and inclusiveness. No one is left out.”
For some students, competition theatre opened new doors. “Out of all the years I did theatre, I had never done comp, and I’m so happy I did it,” said Mya Wallace. “It made me want to work harder in life.”
Addison Walter described the season as “the most difficult and rewarding experience I’ve ever had,” while Mackenzie Fitzsimmons shared simply, “It made me want to get up for school every day.”
“These students continue to raise the bar year after year,” said Michael Clemons, WTC director. “Their talent, tenacity, and commitment were on full display, and they represented the Woodhaven-Brownstown School District with pride. It is an honor and a privilege to work with this company. I’m so very proud and so very grateful.”
Please join us in congratulating the students, directors, and supporters of the Woodhaven Theatre Company on another stellar showing and an unforgettable championship performance.