BGM Speech and Drama earns 1 ratings at Large Group District and State contests

By J.O. Parker
 
     BGM Speech and Drama recently participated in the IHSSA (Iowa High School Speech Association) Large Group District and State contests.
       The IHSSA Large District Contest was held on Saturday, Jan. 22 at Montezuma High School with BGM sending three teams in the Group Improvisation category.
      “Dramatic Intensity,” featuring Lorelai Gerard, Addison Day and Abby Smith received a 1 rating.
    “The Farce Force,” featuring Axton Bartachek, Olivia DeGeeter, Madison Hawkins and Megan Hanlon also received a 1 rating from district judges.
      “Never Safe, Never Boring,” featuring Neveah Bendorf, Morgan Akers and Emily Britts was also recognized with a 1 rating.
State Contest
    All three groups advanced and performed at the state contest with “The Farce Force” receiving three First Place or 1 ratings from all three IHSSA State Judges. The state contest was held on Saturday, Feb. 5 at Cedar Rapids Kennedy High School.
      “While we looked forward to the possibility of an All-State Nomination, we did not receive the honor,” noted Beth Byers, BGM Speech and Drama coach. “However, we remain hopeful that we may attain the honor at the close of the  2022-23 IHSSA Large Group Contest Season.”
      As a side note, Beyer said last year during the 2020-21 IHSSA Individual Event Season, Rose Britts was named All-State Individual Improvisation.
        “We were honored and elated to receive the All-State nomination,” noted Byers.