Cale Wilponen takes the stage one last time at LHS

During the past four years, Cale Wilponen has become a significant member of the performing arts programs at Lewiston High School. Whether it be singing in the choir, playing his trumpet or French horn in a band, or shining on stage during his many theater performances, Wilponen has played a massive part in these programs.
This year, Wilponen will graduate at the top of his class as a valedictorian. In the fall, he will attend the University of Idaho, where he will major in theater performance and minor in music.
“Optimistically, [I want a career in] acting but also just kinda any sort of theater production,” Wilponen said in regards to his future plans.
Theater has always been a part of Wilponen’s life, starting with his mom, who had a knack for the performing arts.
“My mom… went to college for dancing and stuff like that, so she always did performances,” he said. “When she started doing stuff at the Civic [Theater], I kind of joined in with that.”
The rest is history.
During his time at LHS, Wilponen has played a multitude of roles, such as Nicely-Nicely Johnson in Guys and Dolls (2023), Harry Witherspoon in Lucky Stiff (2023), and most recently, Beast in Beauty and the Beast (2024). This summer, however, he will showcase his talent elsewhere.
According to Wilponen, he will be traveling to Coeur d’Alene, where he will act in his first professional production, Fiddler on the Roof. In the production he will play an ensemble character, and will be paid $800 for participating in this unique experience.