By: Lexi Weaver
New Hope, PA – March 31, 2025
Garnet Valley Performing Arts Association (GVPAA) once again proved why it’s one of the most passionate and talented high school theater groups in the region. On Monday, March 31, GVPAA took the stage at the Bucks County Playhouse for the Bucks County Theater Festival, a day filled with hands-on workshops, unforgettable performances, and a deep sense of community.
Workshops: Learning from the Best
The day kicked off with professional workshops where students learned Hamilton choreography, ensemble-building techniques, and theater performance tips from industry pros—including two directors and an actor fresh off the Hamilton national tour. It wasn’t just about learning new moves or techniques; it was about gaining confidence, working as a team, and growing as performers.
Taking the Stage: Brigadoon & 42nd Street
GVPAA wowed the audience with excerpts from Brigadoon and 42nd Street, featuring 47 actors and six dedicated crew members. Each performance was followed by live feedback from professional adjudicators, who praised the group’s energy, professionalism, and heart.
Brigadoon: A Magical Performance
The cast brought Brigadoon to life with heartfelt storytelling and stunning choreography. Some standout moments included:
Cole Miller & Lauren Cusick (Tommy & Fiona) – Their emotional connection and powerful vocals made their love story feel real.
Jeanne Eppler & Gavin Garcia (Meg & Jeff) – Their comedic timing had the audience laughing out loud.
Levi Schnatz & Male Dancers – The Scottish Jig and Sword Dance were so precise and energetic that the judges couldn’t stop talking about it.
Student Directors (Dage Newkirk, Jeanne Eppler, Kaidyn Potochar) – Their behind-the-scenes work made the ensemble feel seamless.
Carli Fruchtl – Choreographed beautiful dance sequences that flowed effortlessly.
Mrs. Thomas & the Vocal Ensemble – Their harmonies were hauntingly beautiful.
Tech Crew (Meredith Strickland & Raigen Roades) – Ensured every detail was perfect, from props to lighting.
42nd Street: A Show-Stopping Spectacular
From the moment they hit the stage, the 42nd Street cast brought energy, precision, and pure joy. Highlights included:
Aidan Simpkiss – Transformed completely from Brigadoon’s kind schoolmaster to 42nd Street’s commanding Julian Marsh.
Cole Miller & Lauren Cusick – Once again stunned with their vocals, with Lauren impressing everyone by convincingly acting like she couldn’t dance—even though she had just proven otherwise in Brigadoon.
The Quartet – Their rendition of Lullaby of Broadway was breathtaking.
Carli Fruchtl & Mrs. Arters – Their choreography and direction made the ensemble feel like a true Broadway cast.
The adjudicators even pointed out how close the GVPAA cast and crew were—not just onstage, but in the audience, in warm-ups, and in the workshops. Their teamwork and support for one another didn’t go unnoticed.
Festival Recognition: Hard Work Pays Off
While individual awards weren’t given out this year, GVPAA still walked away with three incredible honors:
• Outstanding Chorus of the Festival (Brigadoon ensemble)
• Best Individual Dancer – Levi Schnatz
• Outstanding Dance Performance – 42nd Street cast
Beyond the awards and accolades, what really set GVPAA apart was their heart. The judges praised their unity, character work, and sheer joy for performing—qualities that can’t be taught in a workshop.
A huge congratulations to the entire cast, crew, and directors, and a massive thank you to the parents, production team, and school supporters who made this experience possible.
For more GVPAA updates, follow on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, or visit GVPAA.org.
