January 25, 2016

Alumnus revives legendary Beaverton High theater program

In a recent article published by the Oregonian, alumnus Shannon Dery takes center stage for his role in reviving the once larger-than-life theater program at Beaverton High School.

Shannon Dery Shannon DeryIn a recent article published by The Oregonian, alumnus Shannon Dery takes center stage for his role in reviving the once larger-than-life theater program at Beaverton High School. Following in the footsteps of the school’s legendary drama teacher, the late James Erickson, Dery aims to bring back some of the magic of his predecessor’s era while working with the realities of today’s budget constraints.

Dery’s students frequently choreograph, design and direct the show, learning important life lessons like how to speak with confidence, accomplish tasks through trial and error, and, that ultimately, the show must go on. In honor of the school’s 100th anniversary this year, Dery will lead the students in staging a performance of Grease, last seen on that stage 25 years ago. Powered by an enthusiastic cast of students and a team of theater alums (check out their GoFundMe page), the spring musical of 2016 will no doubt pay tribute to the classic Erickson production in a style that reflects the new direction of Shannon Dery.

Read the full article.