June 7, 2026 – By Daniela Rynott
The Bedford Playhouse recently welcomed a full audience for the Rev Up 250 Student Video Showcase, celebrating the creativity of local students as part of the Town of Bedford’s yearlong semiquincentennial celebration.
Students from Fox Lane Middle School, John Jay High School, and Hackley School shared original films exploring Bedford’s history, community, and the experiences that connect generations of residents.
The evening’s grand prize of $1,776, sponsored by the Bedford Historical Society, was awarded to Fox Lane Middle School eighth graders Benjamin Trotta and Joseph Torres for their documentary, One Nation Under God. Their film highlighted Bedford’s historic landmarks while celebrating the community’s enduring spirit of perseverance.
Additional student films reflected the many ways Bedford brings people together. John Jay High School students Elise Templeton and Maggie Lawton explored friendship and community through the lens of softball in America’s Favorite Pastime. Hackley School sophomore Amity Doyle performed her original song Lady Liberty, inspired by American folk traditions. Another John Jay High School team—Maria DeGaetano, Clare Doherty, Cassady Tondorf, and Alix Siegal—showcased the town’s rich history in Too Much Bedford for Three Minutes.
The showcase was made possible through the support of numerous community organizations, including the Bedford Historical Society, Bedford Village Chowder & Marching Club, Women’s Civic Club of Katonah, Friends of John Jay Homestead, and Life Stories, whose sponsorships recognized the outstanding work of participating students.
Together, the films demonstrated how Bedford’s history continues to live through its people, places, and stories. The evening celebrated not only student creativity but also the strong partnerships among local schools, nonprofits, historical organizations, and community groups that make Bedford such a vibrant place to learn, create, and connect.
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