Discovering Theater in College

When I first transferred into King’s, I had no idea that I would love theater so much. I knew New York City as the home of Broadway, but did not realize that I would get the itch to be a part of this world. The first production I saw King’s put on was Waiting For Godot in the fall of 2018. The following spring, Holly Thomas (MCA ‘19) asked me to help with props for the MCA department’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, this was quickly followed by Abby Tilly (MCA ‘20) asking me to help as assistant stage manager for The King’s Player’s production of Top Girls. I was excited to go from being an enthusiastic audience member to a regular member of the crew in a few short months.

I have continued to be involved with theater at King’s throughout my time here. While I may one day return to filling a seat in the audience instead of filling a spot in the Playbill, there are a few things I have picked up from my fellow theater kids that are vital to finding opportunities and being an active member in your community, in the world of theater, and beyond!

1. Walk With A Purpose

There will be times when you feel so lost and confused about what you are meant to do. For me, that feeling has often left me holding a pair of gloves that belong to the costume department when I am supposed to be grabbing the giant pair of fake scissors for the next scene. No matter how you feel, hold your head high and do what you need to in that moment, even if it simply means getting out of the way of someone who knows where they are supposed to be. Take in every moment for what it’s worth and you will eventually get where you’re going.

2. Punctuality!!!

My dad always says “Early is on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable,” and that is so true in work, life, and theater. If rehearsal is at 6pm, not only do you need to be there at 5:30, but you need to have also done your reading for your morning class the next day because you definitely won’t get to it afterwards, which reminds me…

3. Planning Is Your Best Friend

Seriously, there is no better feeling than knowing that you have already completed your homework and memorized your lines. And there is no worse feeling than skipping meals or sleep because you have too much to do that day. Set yourself up for success and plan ahead, even if that just means setting reminders on your phone!

4. Your Passion Can Be Practical 

Since I had never dreamed of being in theater before coming to King’s, I didn’t know what goals to formulate or what areas I was skilled in when I started to participate. As I’ve talked to current students and faculty, the professionals who were brought in for productions, and alumni who are currently thriving in the creative arts, I learned more about the craft and where I could find my place in it. Don’t hesitate to dream of your fantastic future, you might be surprised by how possible it is to become a reality.

5. Take Lots of Pictures

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, TAKE PICTURES ALL THE TIME! Life is short and you are building your portfolio. You will thank yourself later as you make scrapbooks, make your Instagram aesthetically pleasing, and show off your work to potential employers.

Ultimately, the skills and friends that I have made through my experience in theater here at King’s will stay with me long after I graduate (in May!!!). I am so thankful that there are so many opportunities to explore and grow in theater at The King’s College. When Broadway opens back up later this year, I will be one of the first in line to buy front row tickets… and hand in my application.