Julie Matta Chronicle/John Speer

“Theatre creates a world where a nobody can be anybody. The stories of my ancestors have shaped me into being the person that I am today. In this way, each of us are the same” – Julie Matta, South Tama High School junior, begins the closing of her award winning Thespian Democracy Works essay with this message.

As 2nd place winner in Iowa she received $1,000. The national runner-up essay award added an additional $100 of which she is the first from Iowa to receive national recognition. She is a member of the South Tama Thespian Troupe #1038.

Not only did Julie receive state and national awards for the essay, she will be on her way to Washington D.C. this Saturday to represent Iowa at the National Arts Action Summit. The summit is described as “a multi-day event bringing together arts advocates from across the country. Attendees will learn the latest research and legislative arts priorities from the experts in a full day training.”

“I always try to advocate for the arts in some way,” Julie, who lives in Toledo, says and is in the position to do so as she currently serves as the advocate chair as an Iowa State Thespian officer.

On March 5 it’s “Advocates Day” and Julie will bet her chance as she joins with other advocates for a visit to Congress. Julie says its is planned for her to have opportunity to meet with members of the Iowa Congressional delegation.

“South Tama has long been known for its reputation in the Fine Arts, and we are so fortunate to have a student like Julie Matta who wishes to represent not only our school community, but also the State of Iowa, in advocating for Fine Arts programs in the schools,” Dixie Forcht says. Forcht, South Tama schools librarian serves as Thespian Troupe sponsor, large group speech coach and spring play director.

Julie’s participation in music, art, and theatre, combined with her academic success, make her an ideal representative of the Fine Arts.

At South Tama, Julie is a participant in plays, large and individual speech, musicals and has helped out backstage, as well.

She said her plans after high school are to study business communications and, of course, fine arts.