Anticipation filled the room between schools as the ISAACs ceremony began on May 25. There were nine schools: Bellefonte, Central Mountain, Glendale, Great Commission, Moshannon, Philipsburg-Osceola, State College, Tussey Mountain, and Tyrone, as the name of the “Best Leading Actor for a Female Role” was slowly announced.

“I was sitting there holding my friend’s hands when they said my name, and I was in genuine shock. I could not feel more proud and grateful for such an award. Last year was already a shock to me, but in a row was the biggest surprise ever,” senior Erin Ashe said. 

Erin is one of the many talented members of the Drama Club here at Bellefonte High. She has now won the ISAAC award for Best Leading Actor in a Female Role for two consecutive years. Erin notes that Drama teacher and Choir Director Mr. Eric Brinser puts much time and effort into Drama. 

“I feel absolutely over the moon, and in shock about winning this award. I truly would not have won without the people in the Drama Club, and my director, Mr. Brinser,” Erin said. 

The ISAAC awards were sponsored by Altoona Community Theatre, and their purpose is to honor excellence in high school theatre across five  counties. Bellefonte had received ten nominations across nine categories. Together, Bellefonte was named runner-up for the Mishler Award for professionalism. 

“The stage is my happy place and I’m so grateful that we received as many awards as we did because we all worked so hard on this show, and I’m beyond thankful for the ACT for providing a creative outlet for schools to showcase their productions,” freshman Emily Schreffler said.

Emily won the title of “Best Supporting Actor in a Female Role.” She received this in accomplishment for her role in Fiddler on the Roof, which received runner-up in the category, “Best Overall Production.”

Even as a senior, it is no small award to receive an ISAAC, but as a freshman, that’s even bigger. Emily was the only freshman to receive an ISAAC Award. 

“When I found out I had won, I was very surprised because of all the talent in the room. By the time I made it to the stage to accept the award and say my speech, I had completely forgotten what I was going to say. I’m just so grateful to have won this award because Hodel was my favorite role I’ve ever played,” Emily said.

Senior Jane Burgess won the “Best Featured Actor,” and Bellefonte Drama Club overnall named Runner-up for the Mishler Award for Professionalism.