Killeen ISD's Ellison High School student Sasha Lauderdale has qualified for the UIL State Theatrical Design Contest for the second time, earning a spot in this year’s state competition.
Lauderdale is one of 16 students statewide to advance in the 5A Hair and Makeup division after competing in the initial virtual round of the contest. This year’s design prompt was based on “The King Stag” and required students to create original concepts rooted in a selected time period while incorporating the thematic elements “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.”
The UIL Theatrical Design competition challenges students to demonstrate both artistic creativity and technical understanding. Participants must develop detailed designs, write justifications for their choices, apply their concepts, and explain their process while properly citing sources. Each submission is evaluated by multiple judges, who provide feedback for refinement ahead of the state competition.
Lauderdale said returning to state has been a motivating goal.
“After qualifying my freshman year, I knew what it took to be successful.” Lauderdale said. “My goal is to do even better than I did last year. I always try to keep pushing myself to do better and try new things. This year I added wigs and a new art medium to work with. I was proud of how my looks turned out.”
Hayley Hersey, Lauderdale’s teacher said her achievement reflects both her talent and her dedication.
“I am so proud of Sasha,” Hersey said. “She balances involvement and leadership in so many different activities while constantly excelling in her schoolwork. She is extremely creative and a high achiever who is always pushing herself to learn more and improve. The caliber of her designs and her justification was strong and creative, and I’m excited she gets to return to state.”
The UIL State Theatrical Design competition will take place May 15–16 at the Austin ISD Performing Arts Center.