Special to Iredell Free News

Mooresville High School teacher Ron Higdon has been presented a statewide award in recognition of his “demonstrated excellence in the classroom, superior production achievement, and has served as a leader among peers.”

Higdon was honored as recipient of the 2023 North Carolina Theatre Conference (NCTC) K-12 Theatre Educator Award.

The NCTC Board of Directors presents the NCTC Awards to companies, schools and individuals that have exhibited leadership roles in their community, as well as artistic, professional, or educational excellence. The Board of Directors is a group of statewide volunteers who represent the theatre industry and serve on behalf of some of the state’s most prominent organizations and schools.

NCTC Executive Director Angie Hays said Higdon was a deserving recipient of the award.

“I have known and worked with Ron for many years at NCTC. He is an outstanding teacher and director who works tirelessly with his students, instilling in them a love of theatre and an exceptional work ethic. Since 2014, his productions have advance to the State High School Play Festival three times.

“Under his direction, Mooresville High School has hosted four regional NCTC High School Play Festivals, and one NCTC Middle School Play Festival. He is dedicated to our mission to strengthen NC’s vibrant theatre industry and engage tomorrow’s artists, audiences and advocates. Ron is respected by colleagues across the state for his commitment to arts education. The NCTC Board of Directors is proud to honor him with this award,” she added.

About NCTC

The North Carolina Theatre Conference is the statewide service organization and professional association for the theatre industry. NCTC is a non-profit organization founded in 1970 and dedicated to strengthening NC’s vibrant theatre industry and engaging tomorrow’s artists, audiences, and advocates. NCTC members include theatre companies, K-12 schools, colleges/universities, and individual artists and arts supporters. In addition to the presentation of the NCTC Awards, the organization produces several events throughout the year including the NCTC Producing Gathering, NCTC College Day, and the statewide High School and Middle School Play Festivals. Visit www.nctc.org to learn more about NCTC.