J.P. Taravella drama department to present encore performance of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Coral Springs, Florida – The award-winning drama program at J.P. Taravella High School is giving audiences a second chance to enjoy the musical comedy A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum with a special encore performance on Wednesday, March 12, at 7 p.m. The event marks not just a celebration of the show itself, but a major milestone for the program: it has been selected to perform at the 2026 Florida Thespian State Festival.
Only ten productions from across the state earned the distinction this year, and this honor represents a rare achievement for Taravella. In fact, it is the first time in 11 years — and just the fifth time in the school’s history — that one of its productions has been chosen for the festival. All five selections have come under the direction of theater veteran Lori Sessions, who has guided students through countless productions over the years.
“These students worked hard on this production, and it paid off,” Sessions said. “I’m thrilled for them to experience this honor.”
For students, the recognition goes beyond accolades. Participation in the Florida Thespian State Festival allows them to perform in a professional venue, collaborate with experienced theater technicians, and showcase their talents on a statewide stage. It is an experience many performers describe as transformative, blending the excitement of live performance with the discipline and teamwork that theater demands.
“What an amazing opportunity to take this show to a new audience,” said Samuel Caycedo, who portrays Hero in the production. For Caycedo and his fellow cast members, the festival represents both a challenge and a chance to make lasting memories with their peers.
Tickets for the March 12 encore performance are priced at $25 and can be purchased through GoFan, while a limited number of $10 Student Rush tickets will be available one hour before curtain on a first-come, first-served basis. The performance will take place at J.P. Taravella High School, 10600 Riverside Drive, offering a local audience the chance to experience the production before it heads to Tampa for the festival.
Bringing a show to a statewide festival comes with significant expenses. School officials estimate that remounting and transporting the production to Tampa will cost approximately $16,000, bringing total participation expenses to nearly $29,000. To help offset the cost, students have been actively fundraising, and proceeds from the encore performance will directly support these efforts. The combination of ticket sales, donations, and community support will play a critical role in ensuring that the cast and crew can make the trip.
The encore also offers the community a unique opportunity to support young performers in their pursuit of excellence. Students have spent months preparing for this performance, from rehearsals and choreography to technical elements like lighting and sound. The commitment of both cast and crew underscores the dedication and passion that have helped make the Taravella drama program one of the most respected in the region.
With the festival on the horizon, excitement is building among students, faculty, and the wider Coral Springs community. For many of the performers, this encore represents a culmination of hard work, perseverance, and creativity, giving them the chance to shine both locally and on a statewide platform.
