Night Witches production earns multiple theatre organization awards

Nov. 12, 2026  — DENTON — Multiple Texas Woman’s University students were recognized by the American College Theatre Festival for their contributions to the recent production of The Night Witches. 

Three students were nominated for the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship and will compete for the award during the Spring Region 6 Festival in Abilene in February. Kyla Evans was nominated for her role as Anna Yegorova, Fairah Harper for her role as Marina Raskova and Kendall Madkins for her role as Natalya Meklin.

Additionally, the production earned four meritorious achievement awards. Chloe Corona and Joyce Dinocenzio were recognized for excellence in stage management, Amyah Starkes for excellence in scenic design and Ella Marie for excellence in plane lighting sequences. Heather Stamper and Mika Lucas were also recognized for excellence in dramaturgy, which is the research that goes into developing the production and accompanying materials like the lobby display. 

This is the third production the TWU Theatre department has put forward with the organization, and the production could still be selected for additional awards at the regional conference in February. At the conference, the scholarship nominees will perform with an acting partner and get feedback from experts and learn if they advance to a national level. 

The American College Theater Festival (ACTF) is a national organization that celebrates the educational and creative process of university and college theatre, according to their website.

Page last updated 9:32 AM, November 12, 2026