JONESBORO — Mary Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts competed against students from throughout Georgia in the recent 2024 August Wilson New Voices Atlanta Competition.
Two Stilwell Junior Artists students won awards at the March 9 event — Layla Mack in first place and Janieya McNeil in third place.
“We wish Layla the best of luck as she travels to compete in the National Competition against students from all over the United States at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center in Pittsburgh in April,” a Clayton County Public Schools press release read.
August Wilson is widely regarded as one of the most influential and significant voices in American theater.
Throughout his career, he dedicated himself to chronicling the African American experience, particularly in the 20th century, through his iconic 10-play American Century Cycle.
The aim of the competition program — directed and coordinated by Nikki Toombs — is to celebrate Wilson’s contributions to the arts, foster a deeper understanding of his works and to encourage high school students to use their voices on and off the stage to impact the world.
Read the full article here
