By: Alexa Szafranski (10th Grade)
The Hebrew Academy hosted its third annual International Thespian Society (ITS) induction ceremony today, bringing thirteen new members into the group, Troupe #8456.
New members Michaela Acevedo (10th), Shirel Baranes (10th), Mary Berkowitz (10th), Eliana Pollack (10th), Harel Twito (10th), Ella Zaret (10th), Tziyona Gheblikian (10th), Deborah Winer (10th), Sarah Attias (11th), Batya Fruhman (11th), Jaclyn Nussenblatt (11th), Shayna Boymelgreen (12th), and Shani McCarley (12th) were all inducted into the society. Members also received new roles in the society for the upcoming school year. Avigail Kahn (11th) replaced Adira Kahn as President, and Natalie Alishayev (11th) accepted the role of Vice President from Eden Grosz (12th).
“It was amazing to be a part of the Thespian Society for four years,” said President Adira Kahn. “I will always be thankful for this experience and all of the friends, laughs, and fun that came with it.”
The ITS ceremony was bittersweet for the senior class, who took up a great amount of the Thespian Society. The induction served as a final goodbye to them, and many younger members were saddened by the thought of their absence.
“The seniors played a very important role in the Thespian Society,” said newly-knighted President Avigail Kahn (11th). “I really hope to not let them down in the coming years.”
The ceremony also included a short video reflecting on this seasons productions.
“As someone who didn’t go to the play, I liked seeing pictures of it because it showed me the results that I knew my friends were working hard for, especially since I never got to see them in action.” Jeremy Dobin (10th) said.
To qualify for the International Thespian Society, students must have ten points on Thespian Society score cards, which can be earned from serving any part in a production. This year’s new members said they are proud to be a part of ITS.
New inductee Michaela Acevedo (10th) said, “I think it’s really cool because I get to say I participated in something that everyone worked really hard on, and it felt good to see my work pay off.”