Who are some of your inspirations?
One of my biggest inspirations is Eva Noblezada, who landed her first Broadway role at 17 for one of the most iconic Broadway revivals. She then went on to originate two roles in Broadway shows and is constantly getting booked. Eva has brought so much to the Asian community when it comes to theater and has been a role model for me.
How long have you been a part of NA musicals/plays? Which ones have you participated in?
I have been participating in NA theater – both musicals and plays – since freshman year. I have performed in four plays, performed six musicals, and directed four plays at North Allegheny. Some of my most notable shows/roles are Sara Crewe from A Little Princess, Alice Sycamore from You Can’t Take It With You, Carlotta Giudicelli from Phantom of the Opera, and currently Eve in Children of Eden.
What has been your favorite production that North Allegheny has put on and why?
Without a doubt, my favorite show was Phantom of the Opera. It was the first musical I watched when I was little and kickstarted my passion for acting and musical theater. So, to be able to perform a show that I’ve loved my whole life for my senior year was truly a dream come true.
What are your plans after graduation? Have you always wanted to study acting?
I plan to major in acting, but I am not sure where yet. The whole process for both acting and musical theater is long and insane. However, I cannot imagine a life where I am not pursuing this passion.
What schools and/or programs have you applied to?
Currently, I am still auditioning for some programs but the list is NYU, Ithaca, DePaul, Point Park, Rider, Seton Hill, Emerson, and Roosevelt. It has been crazy traveling this past month but 100% worth it.
What do you do outside of school to practice and enhance your skills?
I take both acting and voice lessons along with working to be able to afford them. Along with that, I am constantly working to enhance my craft whether that is singing for two hours a day, or if it is studying and researching different acting techniques online.
In 2023, you won Best Actress for Prime Stage Theatre’s Annual High School Drama Awards. What was your reaction after winning? How do you feel about receiving recognition for your achievements?
Winning my award felt so unreal and still to this day I cannot believe it! For me personally, I have always excelled at my acting more than my singing and dancing, and it was amazing to get recognized for it. The event overall was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for not just me, but student-run plays all across the area and highlights all the hard work they have put into these amazing productions.
What’s a fun fact about yourself that people would be surprised to know?
I love to travel and I have been to a total of 14 different countries!
What is your role in the upcoming spring musical, Children of Eden?
In the spring musical, I am thrilled to be playing Eve! Everyone knows the story of Adam and Eve but to be able to go deep into her character and find the motives behind her actions really has impacted me as a person.
Why should people come to see Children of Eden?
Children of Eden is a beautiful show written by Steven Schwartz, the same composer who wrote Wicked. The story contains many themes about love and belonging, but most importantly forgiveness. This message is extremely relevant today and I feel will make a great impact on anyone who watches it.
