For the first time since the GHSA split One Act Play from its State Literary Competition, the Vidalia One Act Play Team has captured a State Championship. The victory, earned through their compelling portrayal of the Region 3-1A Championship play “Bad Axe,” unfolded late Saturday evening, November 23rd, at Houston County High School in Warner Robins.

“Winning a state championship in one-act play is a dream come true,” said Vidalia One Act Play Coach Margaret Pournelle. “For me, this has been a twenty-year journey, and I could not have asked for a better, more hard-working, and talented group of kids to share this experience with.”

Individual talents were also recognized during the competition, with Sage Powell receiving the honor of Best Actress for her outstanding performance. Meanwhile, Kingston Ryals and Savannah Edwards made their mark by earning a spot on the All-Star cast, further showcasing the depth of talent within the team.

This victory marks the first stand-alone One Act Play State Championship for the Vidalia One Act Play Team and the seventh in the school’s history. The previous six titles were won as part of the State Literary Championships, the last of which was awarded in 1975.

“We want to congratulate Ms. Pournelle, our cast, and our crew for securing the 1st Stand-Alone State Championship in 24 years, said Vidalia Principal Bruce Mulkey. “Ms. Pournelle pours herself into this program and these students year after year.  She's done so for the last twenty years. Seeing her follow up last Spring's Literary State Championship with this year's One Act performance is incredible.  And I can't say enough about our kids and the time and energy they've invested in our program.  They're committed, and they're relentless.  We're proud of their success, and we're proud that they represent the message we're sending - that we will continue to relentlessly pursue excellence.”