Boothbay Region High School thespians were selected as the runner up (second place) acting troupe in Division B at the Maine Drama Festival’s Regional One Act Competition March 6 for their presentation of “Making Nice.”

Director Mary Miller shared some of the judges’ remarks: The ensemble worked well together and the lead actors portrayed their characters well; the judges noted that Annielynn Mackusick, in particular, had great comic timing.

The play within a play was performed with a minimalist set by a cast of 22 — ReAnna Heino, Hayden “Jimmy” Brewer, Gretchen Elder, Mackusick, Wyatt Timberlake, Marissa Farnham, Oliyshia Carrow, Draco Peaslee, Zack Blackman, Sam Teele, Brittany Reed, Cassidy Jones, Sierra Murray, Gabe Purin, Kenny Hicks, Cheyenne Rogers, Emma Rideout, Chelsea Graves, Becca Taylor, Courtney Lewis, Eve Dolloff, and Jamie Wheeler. All came away really psyched.

Courtney Lewis has participated in the competition before, but this year really stood out for her. Why? For starters, her school's play was runner up; she experienced some incredible theater and school pride.

“We saw other plays, and I thought that we had a little chance of placing, the other plays were incredible. When it was time for awards, we all sat together and I waited for another school to be called. Then they announced our name for runner up,” Courtney said. “The feeling it gave me was amazing, to be part of a group that wins something important to this school. I hope to do it again next year!”

Emma Rideout had never thought of being in a play until the day Mrs. (Mary) Miller asked her if she'd like to. Her decision to give acting a try was not only fun, it introduced her to a new group of kids.

“Turns out that I love it!” Emma said. “It was such a great experience going to the festival, I met new friends from different schools — and became closer to my peers at my own school. I will definitely be doing more plays in the future.”

Miller said she’s very proud of her actors and thanked them for a show well done. Miller said the show’s success was also due to the ”back stage magic” by Paulette Carter, costuming; Chris Holmes, Aaron Clifford and Max Hoecker, lighting; and stage manager Lisa Pawlowski.

BRHS was runner up to Lincoln Academy, named first place acting troupe. Other schools in District B that also competed were from Wiscasset, Vinalhaven and North Haven.

For more on this year’s one act, visit www.boothbayregister.com/article/cue-lights-one-act-plays-are-taking-center-stage/66264.