Hometown: Sharon, MA
Year: 2015
Major: My major… that’s a fantastic question! I started off wanting to be a Chemical Engineering major, and I was interested in the dual program with Columbia. But since then, I’ve changed my mind a few times, alternating between Chemistry, Mathematics, premed, and Business. By the end of the year, one or all of these subjects will be my major/minor. But as for now, I wouldn’t say that I’m undecided- I think I’m just indecisive.
What on-campus clubs are you involved in?
On campus, I am involved in Crowd Control (Long Form Improv), Proscenium (A Capella), and IM Soccer (Men’s and co-ed). If I could squeeze anything else in, I would.
Tell us more about your experience being in Crowd Control:Â
In 8th grade, I tried out for Improv Soup, a local troupe in Foxboro, MA, consisting of high school students from all over eastern Massachusetts. Since my acceptance into the group, my passion for improv and comedy have grown. Last year, I tried out to be in Crowd Control, and I feel so fortunate to have been chosen- the kids in my group have become some of my best friends on campus, and the experience has helped me grow as an improvisor, performer, and comedian.
I heard recently you were accepted into Proscenium, how has that experience been so far? Have you always loved singing?
I am very excited to be a part of Proscenium. Based on my first impressions, everyone in the group is so nice, energetic, and musically talented. I’ve already learned nearly two of their big songs, and I look forward to a fantastic year in the group.
A few weeks ago you played the lead role in the 24 Hour Musical, how did you get interested in performing and musical theatre?
My very first performance was in first grade- I was an outgoing penguin named Tacky in a show called Tacky the Penguin. If I remember correctly, Tacky ultimately saves his fellow penguins from a band of poachers by being overly friendly and violently slapping them on the back with a friendly “WHAT”S HAPPENIN’!” The penguins then celebrate. Fade Out.
Since then, I’ve been in James and the Giant Peach, the Wizard of Oz, Roomers, Two Precious Maidens Ridiculed, The Crucible, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. I guess you could say that I’ve been interested in theater for a good portion of my life.
What was the best and worst part of being involved in the 24 Hour Musical? Would you do it again?
Trying out for 24-hour musical was at the encouragement of my friends and family. I was interested in the experience, and I had heard such good things about it. Needless to say, I had no idea what I was getting myself into.To answer your question, I would say that the best about being involved WAS being involved. I had such a good time, and I will definitely try out next year. Most of the credit goes to the people behind the scenes- the directors, managers, techies, music directors, runners, wood-shoppers, costume designers, dance choreographers, and those so far behind the scenes that I neglected to mention them in this unintentionally long list of people who deserve so much thanks for all their work. As for the rest of my experience, as exhausting as it was, I would most definitely recommend it. The pressure and non-stop “theater-ness” of the 24-hour span made me feel a part of the cast, and the ultimate performance was even more rewarding.
Where is your favorite place to eat on campus? Off campus?
My favorite restaurant off campus is Baan Thai, but I am a little biased, due to the fact that I don’t order in or go out to eat very often. On campus, Upper Usdan is my most frequented dining area. I’m working up to having the ‘Griller Workers understand me when I ask for “the usual.”
What are some of your hidden talents?
My hidden talents- I do a mean impression of Elvis Costello doing a mean impression of Eric Clapton. I do an even better impression of Neil Young doing an impression of Gingy from Shrek.
What is the best concert you have ever been to?
The most memorable concert I’ve ever been was a Beatles Mania concert in my town. Do a google image search of Blues Traveler. If those guys and the Wiggles birthed 4 children, and those children started a band together, it could easily be the same Beatles Mania band.
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*Photo courtesy of The Justice