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I have two dogs and two cats. Ollie (pictured) loves to be photographed!

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Matches my dry sense of humor.

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Jukebox the Ghost

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Peony

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Christina's World, Andrew Wy

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I'm musical, empathetic, and an extremely hard worker.

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I'm hypercritical and an extreme perfectionist

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My friends and I at Latin Governor's School in 2016.

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One of my favorite reviews I've written!

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One of my favorite reviews I've written!

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The Cappies || Critics and Awards Program

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Aubrey Winger Loudoun Valley High School Submitted for publication to Cappies News If "you're in town" Urinetown may be the show to see this upcoming weekend. Woodrow Wilson High School performed this mind-boggling political parody with precision and power while showing us that it's truly a privilege to pee.

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I've been playing trombone since 6th grade, and I play in 5 performance groups here at Valley.

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My interview about my experiences in theatre and writing (:

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My interview about my experiences in theatre and writing (:

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Aubrey Winger is the recipient of the "Maryland Theatre Guide Returning Critic" Cappie, which was presented to her by Publisher Mark Beachy at the 18th Annual Cappies Gala on June, 11 2017 at The Kennedy Center. Besides the trophy, Mr. Beachy awarded Aubrey with a check from MD Theatre Guide for $500.

Aubrey Winger is a senior at Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville, Virginia. This is her third year in the Cappies program. She has performed in a variety of theatrical productions, and plays trombone in her school's jazz, concert, and marching bands. She combined these two passions by performing in a pit orchestra this summer. Offstage, she is the head of Marketing and Publicity for her theatre department, the founder and co-president of Shakespeare Club, and has student directed two festival pieces. She is a member of NHS and Tri-Music Honor Society and has earned a varsity letter in theatre three years in a row.
Why are theatre critics important to the arts community?
Theatre critics are an invaluable part of the arts community. They heavily influence readers, bringing patronage to the arts and recognition to productions around the globe. The words of a critic are immensely powerful; with just a few paragraphs they can destroy or immortalize a show.
What has the Cappies program taught you?
Cappies has taught me how to embrace my own voice in my writing. The moment that I let go and put myself on the page was the moment I began to get published. In the grander scheme of things, this realization has had a momentous impact on my life. I've learned that there's no point in trying to be someone you're not, and in accepting yourself you attract people who are genuinely interested in you and the things you care about.

The thing about Cappies is its not just about seeing shows and writing reviews. It's about connecting with people who are ridiculously passionate about theatre and using these interactions to grow. It's about being a community. Learning how to find and praise what makes people beautifully unique. These lessons are so much more important than learning how to write the perfect hook or how to expertly critique. These are real life lessons that I will carry with me as I face the world.
Why are arts programs such as the Cappies important to fund and support?
As school programs shift focus to STEM-based education, arts programs receive less money and less recognition from our school boards. Programs such as Cappies breathe new life into our programs, providing structure and purpose for high school theatre. I've always loved theatre, whether I'm on or off the stage. Just the fact that this program exists, that there is a place where passionate people have the chance to watch theatre and strip it down to the bones: really poke and prod and find all the wonderful facets of a production, is so valuable. Cappies doesn't rank shows or demean actors. It has been meticulously structured so it is a celebration of all the phenomenal theatrical work that is being done in this area. It gives recognition to the students and teachers that put their heart and soul into their productions. It gives them a platform to show the world what they bring to the table.
What was it like hearing your name being called as the winner of the "Maryland Theatre Guide Returning Critic" Cappie?
I couldn't believe it when I heard my name being called. It was a moment of pure adrenalin: I was literally shaking as I walked onstage. I owe this award to so many people. My wonderful family, who put up with my crazy schedule and late nights. Our Loudoun Valley mentors Mr. And Mrs. Poirier, and our very own steering committee member Mrs. Campbell. My entire critic team for cheering me on whenever I got published and providing colorful commentary at all of our team shows. My principal Sue Ross and my director William Staggs for continuing to support the Cappies program and letting it have such a wonderful impact on my life.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I hope to be pursuing a master's degree while working in a lab as a researcher. I know this is possible because Cappies has taught that any goal is achievable, as long as I give it everything I've got.

Although I don't know exactly where I want to be, or even what I'll be studying at the time, I know that I want to keep writing and keep theatre a part of my life. The arts are what have shaped me into the person I am today, and I will always be an advocate to the arts to help them remain in our schools and our communities.

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Aubrey Winger is the recipient of the "Maryland Theatre Guide Returning Critic" Cappie, which was presented to her by Publisher Mark Beachy at the 18th Annual Cappies Gala on June, 11 2017 at The Kennedy Center. Besides the trophy, Mr. Beachy awarded Aubrey with a check from MD Theatre Guide for $500.

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I have dabbled in playwriting and love to act, sing, and perform.