Arts Student of the Week Claire Plath

As a technical theater student at Niwot High School, Claire Plath has had the opportunity to learn about all aspects of theater production. From set design and construction to lighting and sound, she has gained a wide range of knowledge and skills that she can apply to any situation.

She has enjoyed being part of the Niwot High productions, including plays, musicals, and concerts. "It has been a great experience to learn how to work together as a team to create a successful performance," Plath said.

In middle school, Plath performed in "Mary Poppins Jr." and "Shrek the Musical Jr." Her performances at NHS have included "Peter and the Starcatcher," "Mamma Mia," "Noises Off," and "Beauty and the Beast," which sold 2,707 NHS record-breaking tickets and sold out the closing night of the show.

Jason Watkins, Theater Manager at Niwot High School, nominated Plath to be this week's Arts Student of the Week. "Even though I have known Claire only a short time," Watkins said, "she has shown outstanding and tremendous potential in the arts."

Watkins enjoys having Plath in his classes, which have included Beginning Metals, Production Theater, Beginning Technical Theater, and Intermediate Technical Theater. "Her maturity and composure are so advanced that I have often mistaken this sophomore for a senior," he said.

Plath's interest in theater is a passionate one. "I'm a fun, technical theater kid who loves to express myself in a creative way," she said. "I'm able to leave my worries behind and be fully immersed in the moment. I'm fascinated by the technical aspects of theater, from the costume design to the sound design, and I'm always eager to learn more."

Many different actors and theater technicians have inspired Plath throughout her career. One of her biggest influences was her middle school theater director, Sky Seaberry. Seaberry taught Plath the importance of hard work, dedication, and staying true to her craft. Plath was quickly drawn in by Seaberry's enthusiasm.

Plath has also been inspired by the professional musical performances she has seen over the years. "These performances have helped me to understand the power of the theater and the importance of putting in hard work to create captivating performances," she explained. "The actors and theater technicians behind these productions have also provided me with valuable lessons and insight that I have taken with me throughout my theater career."

Watkins has been her all-time favorite theater professional so far. "He has always been himself while staying professional, while caring about our mental health as young adults," Plath said. "His guidance and knowledge of the theater has been invaluable to me and my career. Watching him work and seeing his passion for the theater has been a huge influence on my own work."

Every performance Plath watches, every person she talks to, and every experience Plath has had adds something to her knowledge and appreciation for the craft. "From actors to theater technicians," she said, "these individuals have had an immeasurable impact on my career in the theater."

"Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street" is Plath's favorite show. The musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, tells the story of a barber's quest for revenge against the corrupt judge who ruined his life. "The show is filled with thrilling numbers, intense drama, and unexpected twists that keep the audience on their toes," Plath said. "I love the complexity of the characters and the intricacies of the story. The music, of course, is simply beautiful, and I can't help but be moved by its beauty."

Plath is passionate about mentoring and helping others achieve success. She has found that her peers often seek her out for advice, assistance, and support and she, in return, is very willing to share her knowledge and advice. "I have always strived to be a leader among my peers," she said, "both in and out of the classroom. I believe that my leadership skills have been honed through my dedication to working hard, being organized, and taking initiative." Watkins praised her for this leadership ability. "Claire has outstanding leadership skills with her peers and is often sought out because she is so knowledgeable and talented," Watkins said. "I look forward to another two years of having such a masterful person in the arts."

Recently Plath experienced an incredibly emotional moment while attending the closing night of "Beauty and the Beast." She was standing at the back of the theater filming when the confetti poppers went off at the end of "Be Our Guest," and she realized at that moment that she had reached a goal. "I had gone from sitting in the same audience a few years ago, dreaming of being where I am today. This was a moment I will never forget."

Her theater experience at NHS has been a great way to hone her skills and gain an even better understanding of the theater world. All in all, she said, her experience as a technical theater student at Niwot High School has been eye-opening and has given her a great foundation of knowledge and experience that she can use in her future endeavors.

Plath intends to spend the four years after high school in a sunny, exotic location like Santa Clara University in California, University of Southern California, or Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, while having a great time being young.