SAN CLEMENTE : Tributed Planned for Drama Teacher

The San Clemente High School Thespian Alumni Committee is seeking former drama students who graduated between 1965 and 1978 for a tribute in April to Marion Sykes, founder of the first theater department at the school.

Known affectionately to her students as “Mama Sykes,” the veteran drama teacher taught more than 3,000 students during her 14-year career. She also directed about 50 high school plays. Sykes, who retired in 1978, also took her student productions on tour throughout Orange County.

“For 14 years, Mama Sykes created a true theatrical family, instilling in her students the best qualities the performing arts can offer,” said Mark Manning, a former student who is helping organize the tribute.

Manning, a writer and producer in Los Angeles, recently formed the San Clemente High School Thespian Alumni Committee to help track down all of Sykes’ former students.

“We hope to reach as many of her theater family as possible,” alumni co-chair Barbara Mudge-Hritonenko said.

Friends, colleagues and former drama students are urged to call the San Clemente High School Thespian Alumni Committee at (714) 492-2336 or (213) 933-3662 for more information about the tribute.