GENTRY, AR -- From state-level honors and historic performances to outstanding theatrical productions, the 2025-26 school year was one of the most successful in history for Gentry Public Schools' Fine Arts programs.
Students in choir, band, and theatre showcased their talents on some of Arkansas' biggest stages while earning recognition that brought pride to the entire Gentry community.
"Our students continue to demonstrate that hard work, dedication, and passion lead to extraordinary results," said Gentry Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Tyler Broyles. "Whether performing in concert halls, on football fields, or on stage in front of packed audiences, our Fine Arts students represented Gentry with excellence all year long."
Choir Makes History
Under the direction of Anthony Dutton, the Gentry High School Choir program achieved a milestone never before reached in school history.
At the Arkansas State Choral Performance Assessment in Conway, the Gentry Chamber Choir earned Superior ratings from all three judges, the highest possible marks. The ensemble also received the prestigious Sweepstakes Award for earning Superior ratings at Regional Performance Assessment, Regional Sight-Reading, and State Performance Assessment.
The highlight of the day came when the Chamber Choir was named "Best in Class" among 4A Large Ensembles — the choral equivalent of a state championship and a first-ever accomplishment for Gentry High School.
The Treble Chorus also delivered an outstanding performance, earning an Excellent rating at the state event.
The success followed a strong showing at Regional Performance Assessments earlier in the year, where both the Chamber Choir and Treble Chorus qualified for state competition. The Chamber Choir's performance was so impressive that it received an extended standing ovation from audience members.
Individually, several choir students earned some of the highest honors available to student vocalists.
Freshman JR Kirk, senior Lazaro Cardenas, and junior Jaylin Green were selected to the Arkansas All-State Choir following a highly competitive blind audition process involving thousands of students from across the state.
Additional choir students earning All-Region recognition included Lazaro Cardenas, JR Kirk, Robbie Collins, Kohaku Thao, Juton Lockheart, Isabella Recinos, Jaylin Green, Axanee Yang, Jayden Montoya, Jacob Bolinger, and Audree Castaneda.
Band Continues Tradition of Excellence
The Gentry Band program, led by Ruby Contreras, enjoyed another remarkable year filled with individual and ensemble success.
One of the year's biggest achievements came in the fall when the Gentry High School Marching Band earned a Superior rating at the Arkansas State Marching Assessment, the highest rating awarded. The performance placed the band fifth in the state in its division.
During concert season, the high school band earned an Excellent rating at the Arkansas State Concert Contest in Cabot, finishing among the Top 5 Class 4A bands in Arkansas.
Earlier in the spring, the high school band earned an Excellent rating in concert performance and a Superior rating in sight-reading at the Region VI Concert Assessment, qualifying for state competition. The Gentry Middle School Band also earned praise for its performance at regional assessment, continuing the strong tradition of musical excellence throughout the district.
At the Berryville Concert Festival, both the high school and middle school bands earned Superior ratings.
Individual musicians also achieved impressive success throughout the year. Sophomore Giovani "Gio" Cardenas earned selection to the Arkansas All-State Symphonic Band, securing Third Chair Alto Saxophone against some of the state's most talented musicians. He also represented Gentry in the Region 6 Jazz Band.
At Solo and Ensemble competition, 84 students from grades 6-12 performed, with Lazaro Cardenas and Giovani Cardenas advancing to State Solo and Ensemble competition.
Theatre Brings Stories to Life
Under the direction of Josh McBride, Gentry Theatre delivered two memorable productions that showcased the creativity and talent of students both on stage and behind the scenes.
In the fall, students presented "The Outsiders," bringing S.E. Hinton's beloved novel to life through a powerful three-night run. The production featured strong performances from a talented cast and highlighted the program's growing strength in dramatic theatre.
In the spring, Gentry Theatre shifted gears with the classic Broadway musical "Guys and Dolls." The production required months of preparation and featured student performers, choreographers, designers, technicians, and stage crew members working together to create a memorable experience for audiences.
From acting and singing to lighting, costumes, choreography, and set construction, students demonstrated the collaborative spirit that makes theatre a unique and valuable educational experience.
The success of both productions reflected the countless hours invested by students, staff, volunteers, and families who helped bring each show to life.
Looking Ahead
As the curtain closes on the 2025-26 school year, Gentry's Fine Arts programs have much to celebrate.
Historic choir achievements, statewide band recognition, outstanding theatrical productions, and numerous individual honors highlighted a year filled with accomplishment and growth.
More importantly, students developed confidence, creativity, discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills that will serve them well long after the final performance.
With talented students returning, dedicated directors leading the way, and momentum building across all three programs, the future remains bright for Fine Arts in Gentry, Broyles said.
The 2025-26 school year will be remembered as a special one — and the encore may be even better.