Hinsdale South Students Selected for Theatrefest

Submitted by Hinsdale Township High School District 86.
Photo: from left to right, Kenny Impastato, Diana Juarez, Jakob Kocanda and Melody Rowland

Darien, IL - Hinsdale South High School today proudly announced that five students have been selected to perform at the 41st annual Illinois High School Theatre Festival, commonly referred to as Theatrefest.

The all-state production of the musical “Rent” will take place at Illinois State University’s Braden Auditorium on Jan. 8 and 9.

Over 400 students statewide auditioned for the production with close to 100 selected as actors, technicians and band members.

Cast member Melody Rowland will be joined by crew members Kenny Impastato and Diana Juarez, along with drummer Jakob Kocanda. Student Jimmy Ladd was chosen to sing in the opening ceremonies.

The students have been rehearsing since August and will head to ISU on Jan. 2 to prepare for the production. Hinsdale South Theatre Director Danny Yuska will serve as the assistant director and choreographer of the show. He will be assisted by fellow Hinsdale South staff members Danny Marema, who will serve on the technical crew, and Mike Ross, who will serve as the sound engineer.

For more information, go to illinoistheatrefest.org.