Little Theatre wins big at state competition

The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County received numerous awards during the Ohio Community Theater Association’s state competition in Mount Vernon over Labor Day weekend.

Members of the crew of “The Sweet Delilah Swim Club” recognized were Don Irven, Merit in Stage Pictures; Joe Compton, Excellence in Set Design; Jane Deitrick, Excellence in Set Dressing; Michele Davis, Excellence in Set Dressing; Elizabeth Thomakos, Excellence in Costuming; and Debi DeVore, Merit in Hair and Makeup.

Meghan Miller was chosen Outstanding Delegate representing the East Region. She and Machelle Miller were elected to the state board, where Machelle will also serve as secretary.

Other awards included Kathy Bergstrom, Honorable Mention in Set Design for “On Golden Pond” and Outstanding in Overall Costume Coordination for “White Christmas.” Thomakos also received Excellence in Overall Costume Coordination for “The Sweet Delilah Swim Club.”

Fourteen theaters representing six regions across Ohio presented 30-minute play and musical excerpts Friday through Sunday, with responders judging and discussing the performances with cast members.

“We were thrilled to be chosen to represent the Little Theatre with an excerpt of our production," said Director Don Irven. "I am very proud of our incredible cast and crew who inspired me to direct this wonderful story of friendship. Being chosen as one of the 2025 top community theaters in the state is certainly a once in a lifetime opportunity for many of us. It was a fantastic weekend of friendship and fun to celebrate theater among other thespians from across the state.”

Each year, the Little Theatre selects one production from its season for OCTA regional competition and, if advanced, performs at the state festival.