This week’s campus celebrity is none other than Carthage senior Jessica Cepolski. She is well known within the music and theatre departments and some say she is just as fierce and fabulous as Beyoncé. Even though she may seem like a queen, she’s really just like everyone else. She’s had many leading roles in productions here at Carthage College. Her talent is great, but her world-class character is even greater. Seeing her smiling face walking down campus drive is a treat for anyone around. She is a shining star, even as the weather gets colder and the leaves start to turn, so we just had to gather some highlights!
Photo by Burns Photography
HC: Where are you from?
JC: New Lenox, Illinois
HC: What’s your year and major?
JC: I am a senior music theatre major.
HC: What is your favorite food?
JC: Corned beef! It reminds me of simple family dinners and a warm environment. Also, I love St. Patrick’s Day and we always have a corned beef meal with potatoes and cabbage.
HC: What’s your favorite color?
JC: Red!
HC: What’s your Starbucks order?
JC: A cinnamon dolce latte! It tastes like Christmas in a cup!
HC: What sparked your interest in theatre?
JC: The way that my parents and grandparents talked about their favorite shows around me. I had always loved to sing, and they liked to encourage me by showing me their favorite musicals. The light in their eyes, their enthusiasm and appreciation for theatre and music as an art inspired me to go out there, conquer my fears, and love every moment I was given.
HC: What made you decide to major in music theatre?
JC: My Intro to Acting class over J-term my freshman year. I absolutely loved it and it introduced me to the idea of discovering confidence and trust in myself.
HC: What roles have you played in Carthage theatre?
JC: My favorites have been Inga in Young Frankenstein, Queenie in The Wild Party and Rosa Bud in The Mystery of Edwin Drood. I am currently playing Judas in the workshop musical of Godspell.
HC: What has been your favorite role at Carthage?
JC: My favorite role was probably Rosa Bud. It was so much fun to play with her levels and develop her character throughout the show. Also, I loved singing her confession song when Rosa was voted to be the murderer of the night!
HC: What’s your dream role?
JC: My dream role would be Anastasia. I grew up watching the animated movie on repeat! She has always been one of my favorite princesses and I would constantly sing “Journey to the Past” when I was little. The melody stuck with me even if I didn’t know the words.
Photo by Burns Photography
HC: Are you involved in any clubs or other activities on campus?
JC: Yes! I’m a member of Carthage Choir and I’m also a member of the Lambda Kappa Music Fraternity.
HC: Since you’re a singer, do you have any tips to cure a sore throat?
JC: Many. I always carry around cough drops with me! Halls honey-flavored cough drops are my go-to. Also, drink lots of lemon tea with honey. The most important thing is to stay hydrated and know when not to push your limits as a singer.
HC: What are your favorite fall trends?
JC: I love wearing scarves and going to pumpkin farms. Being able to still enjoy the outdoors without too many layers on and have a warm drink in your hands that makes you feel toasty inside is the best feeling.
HC: Are you more of a pumpkin spiced girl, a salted caramel fan, or an apple cider chick?
JC: Oh, I am definitely an apple cider chick!
The next time you can see Jessica perform is in this year’s Christmas Festival “From Heaven Above To Earth You Come” from December 1-3 with Carthage Choir. Be sure to check it out!
Rep image by Burns Photography