The Canyon Theatre Guild in Newhall is celebrating its 50th anniversary as well as giving five graduates each a $500 scholarship, officials said Thursday.

For the past 20 years, the theatre has awarded scholarships to high school graduates and enjoyed seeing those students apply them towards their educational goals, according to officials with the theatre.

The winners were chosen based on a personal essay and letters of recommendation, according to organizers.

The 2020 Canyon Theatre Guild Senior Scholarships winners are:

• Lydia Botello — The Mercy Holiday Scholarship
• Robin Haggenmiller — The Mike Levine Scholarship
• Xavier Provens — The Darel Roberts Scholarship
• Laine Matkin — The Patti & Greg Finley Scholarship
• Travis Roy Rogers — The James Robinson Scholarship

With recent COVID-19 impacts on college admission, the Theatre believes in supporting and helping Santa Clarita students during this uncertain time and easing the process as much as possible for our high schoolers who are faced with unprecedented challenges, according to officials.

“Thanks to the support of our patrons, we are beyond excited to offer these scholarships to such deserving seniors,” said Jennifer Teague, director of youth programs and administration. “Winner selection was tough, as we were impressed with all of the applicants, and are beyond pleased to know these young people are out there and ready to take on the challenges of the future.”

Whether providing senior scholarships, offering workshops to the youth of Santa Clarita, or creating an outlet of entertainment for the family, the Canyon Theatre Guild exudes a passion for supporting the community and believes this year’s recipients will do the same, according to officials.

“Due to the amazing generosity of our Canyon Theatre Guild patrons, we were able to award $2,500 worth of scholarships this year,” said TimBen Boydston, the executive and artistic director of the Canyon Theatre Guild.  “It is very gratifying, especially during this unique time, to be able to help five incredible seniors as they take the next step in pursuing their dreams.”

For more information about youth programs offered by the Canyon Theatre Guild, contact Teague at Jennifer@canyontheatre.org or (661) 799-2700.

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