50 Years: Athens Theatre Company Celebrating Krista Manfredi
Krista Manfredi began her teaching career with Troy Schools in 1973. She has directed nearly 100 productions on the Athens stage, and now after 50 years in education is the last remaining original Athens staff member. Students, friends, family, and alumni walked the red carpet and gathered in celebration of this golden anniversary.
In late April, the Athens Theatre Company produced a variety show featuring current students and alumni from every decade dating back to the 1970’s. From Florida to California, Texas to New York, hundreds of former students attended the event, with dozens taking the stage at their former high school once more to pay tribute to their favorite teacher.
Between the popular musical numbers, the audience enjoyed many fun videos of memories and other surprises. One major surprise was the opening number, an original 10-minute long musical about the life of Ms. Manfredi herself, written, organized, and performed by current students.
As the show came to a close, one final surprise was the announcement that the theatre would be dedicated to Krista Manfredi for 50 years of service as an educator and director. A dinner reception followed in the Athens cafeteria as alumni gave speeches and posed for many more pictures.
This event showcased the significant impact a teacher can have on multiple generations of students. With no plans for retirement yet, we are excited to welcome Ms. Manfredi back for more ATC shows in her 51st year!