The excellence within Ladue Schools goes beyond the classrooms, and it was recently on full display with the Ladue Horton Watkins High School’s (LHWHS) performing arts programs at the Thespian Leadership Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Representing LHWHS Thespian Troupe 1109, student officers Elizabeth Fries, Zoe Wroth, and Eliza Yawitz earned statewide acclaim for their comprehensive presentation showcasing the troupe's year-round achievements.

The presentation highlighted the full scope of Troupe 1109's impact, from their robust schedule of theatrical productions to community-building troupe events and innovative cross-curricular projects. Following the evaluation, LHWHS was officially awarded the designation of Honor Troupe, the highest honor a Missouri high school theatre program can receive.

The accolades didn’t stop there, as senior Elizabeth Fries ran for the Missouri Thespian Society’s executive board. Following a competitive election process, she was selected as one of only five students statewide to serve as a State Thespian Officer.

"She worked very hard for this, and we are so proud of her," said LHWHS Director of Theatre and Troupe 1109 sponsor Justin Scheuer.

In this prestigious leadership role, Elizabeth will serve as an advocate for performing arts across Missouri, support current student officers, and help plan and execute the 2028 Missouri Thespians State Conference.

"Congratulations, and great job to everyone involved! Thank you, Mr. Justin Scheuer, for working with our incredibly talented students and facilitating this incredible opportunity," added Superintendent Dr. Geoff Macy. 

These achievements reflect the core commitments of our Future-Ready Strategic Plan, which emphasizes empowering students to develop critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership through authentic, hands-on experiences. By engaging in complex stage productions, community outreach, and statewide advocacy, these students embody the characteristics of a Ladue Schools graduate and serve as leaders inside and outside the classroom.

Congratulations to Elizabeth, Zoe, Eliza, Mr. Scheuer, and the entire Ladue Theatre program for earning this outstanding state recognition and continuing to set the standard for fine arts.