KWHS Theatre Teacher, Dustin Hebert, Recognized for Extraordinary Director Talents

Serving as the Kelly Walsh High School Theatre Director, Mr. Hebert has shared his excellent teaching and theatrical expertise with students across the community for the past eight years. Under his direction, Kelly Walsh has brought incredible productions to life, including The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Into the Woods, Rock of Ages High School Edition, and more.

 

Mr. Hebert continues to look for opportunities to expand his professional and theatrical knowledge, and he was nominated for this award as a result of an independent production he did in Colorado this past summer. BroadwayWorld awards recognize talented individuals involved in theatre productions around the world. Mr. Hebert shared what inspired him to take on this project and what the experience was like for him, “I have been wanting to challenge myself by creating a professional resume for myself. I felt like some exposure to the current working model of professional theatre would help. In December of 2021, I put my resume and applications to several theatres. Thingamajig Theatre Company in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, accepted my resume and allowed me to direct one of the three shows they run in the summer. I was given a total of 28 days to put on one of the largest musicals in the last ten years. The experience was incredibly hard but completely worth it.” 

 

 Mr. Hebert works to encourage students to be not only successful but to have fun while achieving their goals, “The honest advice I give is ‘Take a little less genius and a little more joy’- Kurt Stamm Kelly Walsh alumni class of 1982. There will always be mistakes that you make; try to be kind and patient. Confront problems early, and strive to enjoy the art form. This work is incredibly hard, and there will always be those that want a director to do exactly what the last one did. ‘How we've always done it’ will defeat you every time.”

 

Mr. Hebert shared his appreciation for the opportunities provided to NCSD students and how grateful he is to lead the KWHS program, "The district is astronomically supportive of the art and theatre programs in every school. We are so lucky to have such wonderful and talented directors, musicians, singers, and, most importantly, kids.” 

 

Congratulations, Mr. Hebert, on this outstanding recognition!