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O’Connor Theatre Advances To Regionals With A Bold ProductionBy Sally KalosO ’ Connor Theatre is made waves with their compelling 40-minute adaptation of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard for UIL Regionals. This surreal and existential spin-off of Hamlet, follows two minor characters as they wrestle with fate, identity, and the absurdity of life—a perfect match for the students’ blend of humor and depth. The production involved a total of 26 students: 17 cast members, 3crew members, 4 alternates, and 2 interns. “This has been the most difficult play I’ve ever directed,” shared Theatre teacher Michael Arellano. “The subject matter is incredibly mature and intellectually demanding. What makes this group so special is their ability to rise to that challenge with grace. They struck a rare balance between discipline and creativity. They question everything—ideas, choices, meanings—and then commit wholeheartedly. That fearless curiosity and follow-through are what make themexceptional.”The lead roles were played by JulianBreyman as Rosencrantz, William Myers as Guildenstern, Benjamin Cottrill as the Player, and Brad Kruithof as Hamlet. All four have consistently received acting awards at every level of competition. Several students plan to pursue theatre or film in college, with some already accepted into prestigious programs.This year, 14 seniors participated in the UIL One Act Play and will graduate from O’Connor High School in June. When asked whether he had seen growth in his students’ acting abilities over the year, Arellano responded enthusiastically. “Absolutely. Many of our actors grew tremendously in terms of vocal work, physicality, and emotional vulnerability. The demands of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern really pushed them to explore new territory.”He explained that this growth came from emphasizing text analysis, movement, and ensemble work. “Through repetition, feedback, and taking risks, students became more confident and precise in their choices. Our clinics and competition rounds provided additional pressure and growth opportunities.”What makes a great theater student? According to Arellano, it’s“curiosity, humility, and a willingness to work hard. The best students aren’t always the most naturally talented, but they’re the most committed to growing, experimenting, and supporting others.”For students interested in acting, he advises seeing as much live theatre as possible, taking acting classes outside of school, and reading plays constantly. “Also, don’t underestimate the value of watching people and being present in real life— acting is about truth, and that starts with observation.”Yes, all students audition for roles. Arellano emphasized the importance of preparation and growth when casting. “We hold formal auditions for each production and consider their development and how they’ll fit into the ensemble.”This school year, O’Connor Theatre has staged Evita, Clue, and their UIL One Act Play Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead. They’re also preparing for Cabaret, an end-of-year sketch show, Senior Directs, a showcase of student-directed scenes, and Encore, the annual musical theatre revue.“We’re incredibly proud to have made it to Regionals this year, placing us in the top24 out of all 6A schools in Texas,” Arellano added. “Our improv team won 1st place at Thespian Festival, five students participated in the JOCI awards, and one was selected to compete at the prestigious Jimmy Awards. We strive to create not just good actors, but good humans, and we’re excited to keep building this program one show at a time.”The Youngest Activist For The National ParksSubmitted By Valerie CastilloA miya Jasso Journey Castillo, the spirited young explorer who made headlines as the youngest person to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks by age three, is now blazing a new trail! This time as the youngest activist for theNational Park Service, at just four years old. Journey’s journey began at the Grand Canyon at just one week old and over the next three years, she explored everynational park in the United States.From the last frontier at the Gates of the Arctic to the majesty of Hawai’i Volcanoes. But for the Castillo family, it has been about raising awareness for the parks, building a community of nature enthusiasts, and instilling a responsibility for nature from thebeginning.Now, at four, Journey is lending her tinybut powerful voice to a very important mission: advocating for public lands, park rangers, and climate action; inspiring people of all ages to protect the natural wonders that define the American landscape.“I will save our parks and park rangers” says Journey Castillo, “We’ve seen the beauty of our parks, but also the threats they face, and Journey wants to be a part of the solution.” says her parents.June 2025www.heloteshighlights.com9