For many in the theater world, success is measured by the echo of applause or the brightness of the spotlight. But Coppell High School senior Mary Nemec finds success in the seamless moments of music, heightening every scene in a performance.
Nemec’s journey into the world of technical theater did not start with a passion for audio—it began as a challenge.
“I actually first got thrown into sound design my sophomore year and I did not want to do it,” Nemec said. “I had always been a stage manager, and I loved it. But sound wise, I hated it starting out.”
Through sheer persistence, Nemec transitioned her initial reluctance into a notable achievement. On April 10, she became the first sound designer in the Cowboy Theatre Company to win the Schmidt and Jones High School Musical Award in five years.
Nemec’s mastery of sound design was self-taught, fueled by necessity and grit.
“It was mainly me researching, and a lot of tears, but it’s kind of a learn as you go process, so definitely just trying to learn everything helped me figure out what to do,” Nemec said.
Her award-winning work on “Tuck Everlasting” showcases this technical growth in a high-pressure environment. Because the show was held in the CHS Black Box Theatre, Nemec constructed the entire audio landscape from the ground up.
“We had to move our mics down from the auditorium to the black box, hooking the mics to the sound system and just built a new sound system in the black box,” Nemec said. “It was my first time building a sound system from scratch, and I got to learn how to put the mics on and control the volume of the speakers, which was overall a very informative experience for me.”
For Nemec, the hardest part of sound design is also its most rewarding: the fact that it is felt rather than seen.
“Because sound isn’t visual, it is based on your peripheral reference and how well you can hear the audio which is the hardest part about sound design but is actually one my favorite parts,” Nemec said. “I like to find sounds that are very seamless and it goes into the show very well.”
CHS technical director Aaron Kays emphasizes how Nemec’s subtle work elevates the entire production.
“She is great at finding the right music to amplify the mood of a scene without detracting from it,” Kays said. “Her use of mixing and blending effects is excellent.”
While the hardware and software are her tools, peers value Nemec’s prescience the most. Senior Georgia Reynolds said it best while reflecting on Nemec’s impact on the theatre company.
“Mary is a hard worker in this company, she puts in extra hours, to make sure things get done and the shows could not be possible without her hard work,” Reynolds said.
Sophomore Tobin Smith adds that she brings a reassuring energy to the room.
“She brings a presence that assures you that you can be yourself around her,” Smith said.
As Nemec prepares to graduate and study technical theatre design at Texas Woman’s University, she leaves behind a legacy of growth and connection.
“I have developed not only as a technician but as a person as well,” Nemec said. “Theater has definitely brought a sense of community to me.”
As Nemec looks back on her technical theater career, it is the people and the pressure she will carry with her.
“I’m going to miss the people the most and I guess the stress because it’s not been the easiest ride for sure but the community and the people in theatre has really brought me up in supporting me through all my actions and sorrows,” Nemec said.
As the final curtain call approaches, Nemec transitions toward her next act, carrying sound design with her on stage.
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