Elissa Castles '13

Leading Lady

Ever wonder what the UT theater world is like? It seems like drama in the drama department, show-tunes echoing from the Winship Building and sporadic dance parties in the atrium are all part of an average day in the life of a Theatre and Dance major. I sat down with Elissa Castles to get the low-down on her theatrical life.

First off, what is your major?

I am a freshman Theater and Dance major with an acting focus, a BA.

What is it about theatre that you find most appealing?

I love that it stimulates my creative nature and allows me to let go and experiment. It’s great to be able to try new things and put myself in situations I would not otherwise be set in.

Thus far, in your theatrical career, who has been your favorite character to play?

My favorite role I played was Mrs. Sorken in the play Mrs. Sorken by Christopher Durang because it was a comedy where I was able to be silly and have fun on stage. It was a one-woman show so I felt really proud of my performance.

Describe the best show you have seen?

I saw a show called Into the Hood, performed by a dance company that performed the show, which is a parody of Into the Woods, in a completely hip-hop style. They used cut and edited hip-hop songs to create the story line and used their body’s progress the story. It was amazing!

How does it feel to perform a stage-kiss in front of a loaded audience?

It is really nerve wrecking, especially when my parents are sitting front and center, but other than that is it totally fine because you are not playing yourself, you’re playing a character and a kiss is something natural that they would do.

Tell us about student-life in the Winship Building.

Well, normally the theater student’s meet in the atrium and everyone is very friendly and easy-going. It’s easy to meet new people because everyone is outgoing and enjoy being around people. Theater students are very funny and love being entertained by each other.

Any upcoming show’s UT is putting on this semester?

Our Town is a popular straight play and Difficulty of Crossing a Field is a newly written musical, both will be performed this semester.

After graduating, what is your big plan?

I would like to move to New York City, audition for plays and end up the leading actress on a long-running Tony award-winning show. But, if that does not come true, I’d like to be a mom.

And there you have it, a glimpse into Elissa’s Theater-filled life. Feel free stop by the Winship building on campus and see what’s playing!