Elkhart Civic Theatre Recognizes Outstanding Talent with College Scholarships
Elkhart Civic Theatre at the Bristol Opera House has recently awarded two college scholarships to deserving recipients, Libby Eichorn and Eddie Bell. The scholarships were presented during intermission of Elkhart Civic Theatre’s performance of The Prom on July 21.
Libby Eichorn, a highly accomplished actor and participant in Elkhart Civic Theatre’s youth programs and Mainstage productions, was awarded the prestigious $500 Glen Gosling Memorial Scholarship. Libby’s journey with Elkhart Civic Theatre began when she auditioned and secured a role in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr. at the tender age of fifth grade. Since then, she has been involved in over a dozen ECT productions, including renowned shows like Into the Woods, Lucky Stiff, and Bright Star. Libby has also taken on the role of assistant director for two youth productions. Her talents and dedication have earned her a place at Millikin University this fall, where she will pursue a BFA Theatre-Acting program within the School of Theatre and Dance.
Eddie Bell, currently studying at Ball State University, was bestowed with the $1,000 Michael Cripe Theatre scholarship. This prestigious scholarship is awarded to individuals planning to pursue a theater degree and a career in the performing arts or technical theater arts. Eddie’s stage journey with Elkhart Civic Theatre began with remarkable performances in Big: The Musical, The Little Mermaid, and Disaster! Eddie’s ultimate aspiration is to embark on a professional career, sharing his love for theater and ensuring others experience the same joy he has throughout his life.
The scholarship awarded to Libby honors the late Glenn Gosling, a beloved ECT actor and board member who had a deep appreciation for both the performance and technical aspects of theater. The Glenn Gosling Memorial scholarship is supported by Elkhart Civic Theatre and the Gosling family.
The scholarship awarded to Eddie is a tribute to Michael Cripe, an accomplished actor and former Elkhart Civic Theatre participant. Michael’s journey in theater took him to Broadway and various stages worldwide, but he always maintained a connection with Elkhart. Before his passing in 2015, Michael returned to share his experience and talents with ECT, including performances, choreography, and directing. The Michael Cripe Theatre scholarship, supported by the Michael Cripe Studio and generosity of Michael’s brother, Jeff Cripe, and Label Logic, Inc., continues the legacy of his passion for theater education.
Elkhart Civic Theatre’s commitment to nurturing and supporting promising talent in the performing arts is commendable. These scholarships not only celebrate the achievements of Libby Eichorn and Eddie Bell but also reflect the theater’s dedication to the growth and development of young artists. As we bid farewell to two exceptional performers, we eagerly anticipate the extraordinary contributions they will make to the theater world in their future endeavors.
