Growing up, I was always that shy and awkward kid that was chosen last during PE soccer. Although I did sports growing up, I never found myself being overly competitive or excelling in them. I needed something different and something more fun. I needed a place to be myself and not be afraid.
During middle school, I had no sense of direction and had no idea who I was or what I wanted to do with my time. I did sports, dance and figure skating, but there was still a void in my life that somehow couldn't be filled. It was a void that couldn't be filled until one December day in 2009. That was the day that I saw an audition announcement for "High School Musical”, which was my favorite movie at the time. Without a doubt, I wanted to audition, but was scared out of my mind. The next day, though, I went to the theatre to audition. I was wearing jeans and a pink tank top (I know, cringe) and filed into a room with over 20 other kids, who were all hoping to be a part of this fun musical. When it was my turn to sing, I was shaking and forgot the lyrics. I had to go back and get my sheet music and restart my singing audition. After I was done, I knew I had been cut. That is, until I got an email saying I had been cast in the ensemble. I was shocked and stoked all at the same time.
Fast forward to 2011 when I auditioned and was cast in the Teen Apprentice Company. Apprentice Company really tests you and pushes you to all your limits. I laughed with friends after a mock cattle call audition and cried in the corner due to stress when I forgot my lines during tech week. I was sleep deprived when rehearsals went until 9:00 PM and then had to come home and do homework. I had to miss school for morning shows. But there is no doubt in my mind that it was completely worth it. I loved every moment of theatre. I became a better performer and person because of Apprentice Company. I learned so much more about theatre and myself.
Throughout my time at the Palace Theatre I was in 20+ youth/company shows, I was part of “A Christmas Carol” for four years in a row, which was a professional production, I was a theatre camp counselor for a few summers, I took dance classes from amazing performers, and I made so many lifelong friends and memories.
Theatre saved my life. Theatre took my hand and showed me that it's okay to be myself. Theatre taught me that we don't win them all but we have a strong family to support us when we fall. Theatre taught me to go after my dreams. I owe everything to theatre because theatre taught me how to be me.
I dedicate this to my Palace Theatre family who I love and admire ever so much. Thank you.
