The Ursuline College Chatham community is celebrating a major accomplishment in the world of student theatre — Wisteria, UCC’s original student-led production, has been selected to move on to the prestigious National Theatre School (NTS) Festival Provincial Showcase.

After competing in the Southern Ontario Regional Festival in Windsor on April 22, Wisteria was named one of just two “Outstanding Productions” out of 11 schools. It marks the first time since 2002 that UCC has advanced to the provincial level of the NTS Festival.

Written, directed, choreographed, and scored by students, Wisteria is a powerful testament to creativity, collaboration, and the dedication of its cast and crew. From set design to stage management, every element of the show was student-driven.

“This is an incredible achievement, and I couldn’t be prouder of our students,” said Lisa Harnarine, Principal of Ursuline College Chatham. “Wisteria is a shining example of the creativity, leadership, and collaboration that thrives at UCC. These students have made an extraordinary contribution to the arts and to our community — and they’ve done it with heart, courage, and vision.”

The production received multiple accolades at the regional level, including:

• Award of Merit (Acting) – Jaxson Klein
• Award of Excellence (Playwriting) – Malachi Smith
• Outstanding Award for Directing – Malachi Smith
• Outstanding Award for Stage Management – Vernice Louise Torculas
• Outstanding Production – Wisteria, UCC

“This experience has been transformational for our students,” said Melissa Fernandes, staff advisor. “They poured their hearts into this production — every rehearsal, every design, every note played was done with care and intention. Wisteria has become more than just a play. It’s a reflection of their voices, their growth, and their belief in each other.”

Lisa Demers, Director of Education, praised the students and staff, adding, “The level of talent and commitment shown by UCC’s theatre team is truly remarkable. Wisteria was beautiful, moving, and exceptionally performed. We are so proud of what these students have accomplished — and how they’ve represented our Board through the arts.”

As UCC prepares to bring Wisteria to the provincial stage, one thing is clear: the magic of this production is only just beginning to unfold.