FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAGUNA BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
CONTACT: ANAKAREN UREÑO
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT
949-497-7700 EXT. 5232

January 6, 2025

Laguna Beach High School's fall play “Trap” earns 2nd Place in California Educational Theatre Association (CETA) Festival

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. – Laguna Beach High School’s fall play, “Trap,” received second place honors for Area 4 (South County/San Diego) at the California Educational Theatre Association (CETA) Festival. The cast and crew of the production, which ranked just 0.06 points behind first place, will perform a 10-minute cut of the show at the CETA Festival, held at Fullerton Union High School during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, January 17–19, 2025.

CETA has been a leading advocate for theatre education since 1945, providing resources and opportunities for students, educators, and artists across the state. Each year, the organization evaluates high school fall productions in four regions of Southern California, highlighting exceptional performances through its selection process. The second-place designation for “Trap” highlights the cast and crew’s exceptional work in achieving high artistic standards and earns them the opportunity to showcase their talent at this statewide celebration of theatre education and student achievement.

"This award reflects the hard work and commitment of our entire cast and crew, and sets an exciting tone for the future of this program! The dedication and heart these students put into each and every production inspires me every day to be the best director I can be," said LBHS Theatre Director Meghan Minguez-Marshall.

The CETA Festival weekend offers opportunities for artistic growth for students and teachers, including workshops led by industry professionals, scene competitions, spaces for BIPOC students and educators, and scholarship opportunities. The three-day event features four mainstage plays, each selected from one of Southern California's regions: Los Angeles, Orange County, the Inland Empire, and San Diego County. The festival embodies CETA's mission to ensure that every California student experiences the highest standards of theatre arts education.

"Trap and its cast and crew are truly deserving of this recognition," said LBHS Principal Jason Allemann, Ed.D. "I am honored to work with the LBHS team to provide high-quality performing arts programs that offer valuable experiences and unique learning opportunities for our students," he concluded.

Laguna Beach High School’s visual and performing arts programs allow students to explore their creative talents in theatre, music, and visual arts. These programs focus on collaboration, critical thinking, and self-expression while preparing students for success in the arts and other fields. Students participate in performances, exhibitions, and activities that enhance their education and connect them with the local arts community. Follow @lbusdtheatre on Instagram for updates on upcoming performance dates and behind-the-scenes content.

The LBHS theater program is already preparing for its spring musical, “9 to 5.” Performances begin March 7, with tickets expected to go on sale the week of Feb. 10. To learn more about Laguna Beach Unified School District and stay updated on district news, visit www.lbusd.org, follow @LagunaBeachUSD on Instagram, and subscribe to the district newsletter. 

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