WHS Stunt Night / Wright Flight Rewards | Eastern North Carolina Now

    We attended the 51st Annual Stunt Night at Washington High School Performing Arts Center. It was more than raining, but the crowd was good and the excellence of the skits was obvious. This event started in 1965 with a $485 scholarship and now has grown to $7,200 in awards to a deserving senior going on to higher education. Last year 6 graduates benefited from the help.

    The most amazing thing to me is the fact each playlet is created from scratch by the class doing it. The freshmen did "Flawle$$", sophomores "Without a Beat", juniors "Not Such a Bad Guy", and seniors "My Big Greek God Wedding." Each one was a unique take on life and the Greek Wedding even had the ancient Greek Gods in front of us with a modern twist. Our emotions were stirred and our minds broadened.

    Videos can be obtained from Mr. Gore and $10 is due to secure your order through May 1.

    The judges had their hands full in deciding who won. History shows the Senior or Junior Class typically wins. What it shows me is the rapid progress of each class as they participate in the activity. Criteria for judgment are acting, scenery, costuming, script, musical numbers, dance and choreography, reception of the audience. My hands still hurt from clapping at the antics on the stage.

    A look at the Judges gives a quick review of how this activity has led many to significant roles in the Arts in and around Beaufort County:

      •  Susan Braddy --- graduated in 2008. She is a preschool teacher at St. James Preschool in Greenville

      •  Susan Braddy --- graduated in 2010 and is the band director at Northside High School

      •  Susan Braddy Beth Hegwer --- graduated in 2003. She resides in Winterville and teaches Middle School Chorus

      •  Susan Braddy Vickie Johnson --- taught math at WHS for many years and was active in the Stunt Night at that time

      •  Susan Braddy Kay Chance Wilson --- taught from 1974 with Beaufort County Schools doing English at WHS and retiring in 2009

      •  Susan Braddy I am of the opinion that Art and Drama teach our children more than we imagine. It frees the mind to create and also gives one the ability to appreciate everything from movies to live acting no matter where you go. As a Minister, I was in front of people each week charged with 20 minutes of communication to the best of my ability. Everyone gets something out of church

    some get up inspired / others wake up refreshed! No matter what, people who see and hear you deserve your best and this is how such is taught to the next generation!

    My hat is off to the talented folks at WHS. We are more than blessed with such events of the arts. We came here from the Nash County School System and are discovering each year the superior nature of public education in Beaufort County. It is a team effort and from here we might well see the next Sandra Bullock or Andy Griffith of tomorrow.

    Prior to the Talent Night we went to the Airport to enjoy the Wright Flight Award to elementary students who qualified. There, again, the pilots gave their aircraft, the Civil Air Patrol directed traffic and helped people be safe around turning propellers. My grandson took his first flight this year and last year another hit the air for the first time! They want me to quiz them on the Wright Brothers and airplanes to show off their new knowledge.

    When learning becomes fun, flying or acting, it entices young minds to excel and grow! Thanks for a fun day and good education in Beaufort County, NC!