Written by: Ritchie Bermudez

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Cuesta College Drama Artistic Director bree valle* has been honored by the Kennedy Center with the Gold Medallion, considered one of the great honors in theatre education. Valle accepted the award at a virtual event on Feb. 12.  

Each year, the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival's (KCACTF) eight regions honor individuals or organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to theatre production and education. The Gold Medallion is the most prestigious regional award given by the KCACTF. 

Cuesta College is part of Region 8, which includes central and southern California, Arizona, Utah, southern Nevada, and Guam. Cuesta College’s original production of Ghost Ship in 2019 received ten national awards from KCACTF, including Outstanding Theatrical Creation and Outstanding Director for valle. 

Valle has been a faculty member and artistic director of the drama program at Cuesta College since 2000 and teaches Rehearsal and Performance, Acting for the Camera, Script Analysis, and Introduction to Theatre. She grew up in Northern Canada and has studied at the University of Alberta, Simon Fraser University, and Lakehead University, and earned an MFA in contemporary performance from Arizona State University. She is the co-artistic director and co-founder of Blu Canyon Studios and has acted and directed both locally, nationally, and abroad. 

Valle's passion for theatre has led her on a lifelong journey of learning, growing, and inspiring others. “Making theatre that empowers disadvantaged youth to find their voice, to cultivate their listening skills, to be kinder playmates, and to bring joy to others has been the most fulfilling journey I could have ever asked for,” said valle. “I am grateful and overjoyed to accept this honor.”  

Please visit the Cuesta College website for more information about Cuesta College’s drama and performing arts program.

*bree valle does not capitalize her first or last name