Turner Ashby High School (TAHS) students are revitalizing a powerful theatrical piece deeply connected to their school's history. In May, the Theatre Department will present "Echoes in the Hallway," a play written by former TAHS Drama Teacher, Joseph P. Hiney, commemorating the 25th anniversary of his legacy.
Cecille Deason, M.A., Theatre Teacher and Director at Turner Ashby, is guiding students as they update and revive this meaningful work. What makes this production particularly poignant is its connection to Hiney, who tragically passed away in a bicycle accident on June 2, 2000, shortly after the play's initial success.
The performances will take place May 1-3, with shows on May 1 and 2 at 6:30 PM and May 3 at 2:30 PM. A special memorial performance is scheduled for May 2, featuring a presentation at 6:30 PM and a pre-show reception for former company members, students, friends, colleagues, and family members.
Originally produced in 1999-2000, "Echoes in the Hallway" depicts the impacts of high-stakes testing reforms on students in rural Virginia. The production garnered significant acclaim during its competitive season, advancing from District competition, winning at the Regional level, reaching the finals at the Virginia Theatre Association high school festival, and placing 5th at the VHSL State Festival.
"It's exciting to connect to the history of this school and honor Mr. Hiney," says Lucy Clouse, an 11th-grade student involved in the production. Joey Ziata, a senior, adds, "It's always been clear that Mr. Hiney had a great influence on account of all the pictures I've always seen of him. I'm so glad to be part of something of his, y'know?"
After Hiney's passing, his students and the Turner Ashby community continued to perform the play at town hall meetings. The Rural School and Community Trust even recorded the production in West Virginia as part of educational efforts across the state regarding SOL testing, working alongside Parents Across Virginia United for the Reform of SOLs (PAVURSOL).
For current students, participating in this production offers a unique opportunity to address important educational issues. "This show says things that need to be said, and I am so proud that we get to continue Mr. Hiney's legacy of speaking up for those that need it," notes 11th-grader Phaedra Wells. Elizabeth Sieber, also in 11th grade, expresses similar sentiments: "This show gives a voice to the students and allows us to approach topics that aren't approached in any other show I've ever been a part of."
Hiney's impact extends beyond the stage—his legacy lives on through two scholarships established in his honor through the Rockingham Educational Foundation. The Joseph P. Hiney Fine Arts Scholarship offers $1,000 to Turner Ashby High School seniors who have participated in Fine Arts during high school and intend to major in Fine Arts (art, choral/instrumental music, theatre) in college. Additionally, the Joseph P. Hiney Memorial Scholarship provides $1,000 to Turner Ashby seniors who have participated in dramatic arts and plan to major in dramatic arts in college. Both scholarships require applicants to demonstrate academic achievement and financial need, along with two letters of recommendation from school officials. More information can be found by clicking HERE.
In lieu of ticket sales, donations will be accepted for the production. "It is the best thing for me to be in this show and I enjoy performing with my friends," shares Marisa Taylor, who plays teachers in the production. For Cam Sheffer, an 11th-grader, the experience has been personally meaningful: "I love this show so much and it shows everyone that I'm not just the big teddy bear everyone says I am."
Through this revival, Turner Ashby students are bridging past and present, ensuring that Joseph Hiney's artistic vision and educational advocacy continue to echo through the hallways of their school and beyond—while supporting future generations of artists through his memorial scholarships.
Photo from the 1999–2000 Turner Ashby High School yearbook, the Drama Club, led by advisor Mr. Joe Hiney, met to discuss future productions and activities. (Photo by Gentry.)
The original 1999-2000 cast of Joseph P. Hiney's 'Echoes in the Hallway' during their award-winning competitive season. The production advanced to state-level competition before Mr. Hiney's passing in June 2000
Twenty-five years later: The 2025 Turner Ashby Theatre Department cast revives 'Echoes in the Hallway' with an updated script while preserving Mr. Hiney's original vision and message.
