Student performers of all abilities, from West Hartford’s Conard and Hall high schools, presented the 2026 Unified Theater production.

By Kelly Fleischmann

On Thursday and Friday night, April 30 and May 1, Conard hosted its 24th Unified Theater performance, highlighting the unique skills and abilities of all performers involved. Unified Theater began at Conard High School in 2002, founded by then-sophomore Micaela Connery. The program has since spread to over 60 schools nationwide, and continues to grow yearly. 

In West Hartford, the production involves students of all abilities from both Conard and Hall, and the locations switch off between schools.

Conard Unified Theater rehearsal. May 1, 2026, Photo credit: Maya Hernandez

Every year, the Unified show has a theme. This years’ was Lights, Camera, Unified! Every skit was centered around something related to Hollywood or movie productions, and led the viewers through the chronological order of a Hollywood production. This included everything from auditions, to filming, to the awards ceremony. 

Conard Unified Theater closing night. May 1, 2026, Photo credit: Sue Nguyen

Along with skits, the Unified theater show always includes two whole cast dance numbers and a performance of a song in ASL. The first dance number was to the song Take On the World by Rowan Blanchard and Sabrina Carpenter from Girl Meets World. This number was choreographed by Leila Villanova and Rachel Sullo, and was tailored to ensure that cast members of all abilities were able to perform. 

Conard Unified Theater rehearsal. May 1, 2026, Photo credit: Maya Hernandez

The ASL production was to the song I’m Yours by Jason Mraz, and the final dance number before the curtains closed was to Dancing In The Dark, from The “Home” Soundtrack. 

Conard Unified Theater rehearsal. May 1, 2026, Photo credit: Maya Hernandez

At the end of the closing show, the baton was handed off from this year’s directors, Kenon Archambeault and Madeline Santangelo, to next year’s – Rachel Sullo and Teddy McPhee. The rest of the leaders were announced, and the show concluded with a bittersweet farewell to all 30 seniors who dedicated their time and energy to the program.

Conard Unified Theater rehearsal. May 1, 2026, Photo credit: Maya Hernandez

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