PSJA Southwest ECHS Theatre Earns UIL 5A State Bronze Medal, Ranks Among Top Theatre Programs in Texas

AUSTIN, TX — The PSJA Southwest Early College High School Theatre team in Pharr, Texas earned statewide recognition at the 2026 University Interscholastic League (UIL) 5A State One-Act Play Contest, held May 19, 2026, at the Austin ISD Performing Arts Center, placing third out of more than 250 5A schools across Texas. 

Advancing to the UIL State One-Act Play Contest is considered one of the most rigorous and prestigious accomplishments in Texas high school theatre. Theatre programs compete through multiple rounds of District, Bi-District, Area, and Regional contests before earning the opportunity to perform on the State stage. Being recognized at the State level represents one of the highest honors a high school theatre student can achieve through UIL competition. 

This year’s production, Living Out by Lisa Loomer, tells the powerful story of the relationship between a Salvadoran nanny and the Anglo lawyer she works for. Through themes of family, sacrifice, identity, and immigration, the play explores shared humanity while examining differences shaped by race and class. 

“To reach the UIL State stage requires extraordinary discipline, talent, and dedication,” said PSJA Fine Arts Director Jon Taylor. “What these students and directors accomplished is truly remarkable. They represented PSJA ISD with excellence and earned recognition among the very best theatre programs in Texas.” 

During the awards ceremony, the cast and crew received a UIL State Trophy along with individual UIL State Bronze Medals for their performance. In addition, junior Fernanda Macias earned an Honorable Mention All-Star Cast Medal, while junior Alexandra Guerrero received an All-Star Cast State Medal. 

To learn more about the award-winning PSJA ISD Fine Arts Program, visit www.psjaisd.us/finearts. 

 
 
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