Performer Interviews

How long have you been performing on stage? About 5 years

What was your first show at Yorba Linda Spotlight? Once Upon A Mattress

Why do you like performing in shows at Yorba Linda Spotlight? The cast and the crew and everyone at Spotlight is so sweet and helpful and they are like family.

What is your dream role? Frankie Vali in JERSEY BOYS or Billy Flynn in CHICAGO.

Of the roles you’ve played, which has been your favorite? Definitely Mal in Addams Family because he has such a drastic change in character from the first scene to the last scene.

Has Spotlight helped you grow as a performer? If so, how? For sure because before spotlight I had never been cast in a lead role, so Spotlight helped with my self confidence and really peaked my interest in theater.

What do you like to do when your not performing? I like to be active, so I will go to the gym or trampoline parks but mostly when I’m not at Spotlight rehearsal, I’m most likely at OCSA rehearsal.

If you could choose a show for Spotlight to produce, what would it be and why? Probably Charlie and the Chocolate Factory because it’s such a fun show.

What are your strongest and weakest traits as a performer? My strongest trait is probably my comedic timing/sense of humor and my weakest trait is the fact that I can’t keep a straight face during scenes.

Of Spotlight’s past shows, which was your favorite and why? Addams Family because the cast was the closest cast that I have ever encountered.

Anything else you want to say? Spotlight has really changed my life and I think that Side Show is going to be an amazing show that everyone should come see.

How long have you been performing on stage? I have been performing since I was 10 years old, my first show was Beauty and the Beast. Addams Family will be my 10th show at Spotlight.

What was your first show at Yorba Linda Spotlight? My first show at Spotlight was Beauty and the Beast, I was a villager. I watched all the older actors and I knew that I wanted to be like them one day. That show really started my love for musical theatre.

Why do you like performing in shows at Yorba Linda Spotlight? They are such a professional theatre company and always put on a top quality show. The directors are so supportive and they are awesome teachers. Whether you have a lead or supportive role the cast always encourages each other. I have learned something new from every show I’ve performed in. My confidence has grown as a performer and as a person. I have made so many great friends at Spotlight.

What is your dream role? That’s such a hard question because there are so many good roles out there. I would have to say Willard from Footloose, I love the song Mama Says. But if I’m being serious, Jenna from Waitress would be my dream role. She is such a complex character and it would be a challenging role.

Of the roles you’ve played, which has been your favorite? Definitely Wednesday Addams! I love the dynamics between all the Addams Family characters. The show is very funny and surprisingly sweet. Wednesday is relatable and a really fun character to play. I can’t wait to perform as her onstage! Another past favorite role was being a Storyteller in Once on this Island. Once on this Island was such a special story to tell.

Has Spotlight helped you grow as a performer? If so, how? Definitely! There are many amazing performers at Spotlight and I have learned so much from watching them over the years. The directors have really helped me with developing my acting skills.

What do you like to do when your not performing? I enjoy sketching and painting in my free time. Art is a strong passion of mine. I also play piano and write songs with my friends. I love going to shows, whether it be community theatre or touring productions. Like most teenagers, I am always hanging out with my friends.

If you could choose a show for Spotlight to produce, what would it be and why? I really like comedies, so I would choose Spelling Bee. I think that show is hilarious. Another one of my favorites is a well known classic, Les Miserables. It would be great if Spotlight could produce that one again.

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How long have you been performing on stage? I’ve been performing on stage since I was about 3 or 4. I started by taking dance classes and performing in dance recitals. When I was 8, I joined a children’s choir, and when I was 11 I did my first full length musical, at Spotlight!

What was your first show with Yorba Linda Spotlight? My first show with Spotlight was The Wiz in 2011. I auditioned with my older sister who had just done Spotlight’s last show, Thoroughly Modern Millie. After seeing her in that show I knew I wanted to be in the next one, but I was so nervous at the audition that I forgot all of my lyrics. Fortunately Melissa Staab, the director, sang with me until I remembered them again!

Why do you like performing in shows with Yorba Linda Spotlight? I love performing in shows with Spotlight because of the level of professionalism present and the people involved. The directors and staff are always kind and considerate but also uphold a high standard of professionalism at all times. This spirit translates to the cast. Everyone supports each other and encourages each other to be the best they can be. I always have fun in a Spotlight show and always come out of it learning something new about myself and my craft.

What is your dream role? Some of my dream roles are Ella in Cinderella, Lily in The Secret Garden, and any of the March sisters in Little Women.

Of the roles you’ve played, what has been your favorite? My favorite role that I’ve played is probably a Lead Storyteller in Once on This Island. Once on This Island is a beautiful show and a fun ensemble piece. I sang a small but special solo during Ti Moune’s final monologue. That scene was always emotional and without a doubt my favorite part of the show.

Has Spotlight helped you grow as a performer? If so, how? Spotlight has helped me grow as a performer exponentially. When I was younger, watching the older kids at every rehearsal was like a masterclass. Since then, I’ve learned to always be open to new ideas and never stop growing. Spotlight also taught me how to conduct myself in a professional manner in any situation.

If you could choose a show for Spotlight to produce, what would it be and why? I would choose She Loves Me. It has a wonderful score and complex characters, and I think it would be lots of fun!

What are your strongest and weakest traits as a performer? My strongest trait as a performer is preparation and organization. My weakest trait as a performer is that I am a perfectionist.

 Of Spotlight’s past shows, which has been your favorite and why? My favorite of Spotlight’s past shows that I’ve done is either Hairspray or Bye Bye Birdie. I got to be in these shows with both of my sisters, so they will always have a special place in my heart.

Anything else you would like to say? Thank you to the Spotlight directors and staff, past and present, for all that you have given me. I am so grateful for my time at Spotlight and all that I have learned. And thank you to my family and all the Spotlight families who do so much to help their children shine on stage.

 

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How long have you been performing on stage? I have been performing since I was in kindergarten. I was in my schools production of Alice in Wonderland.

What was your first show with Yorba Linda Spotlight? Suessical the Musical, 2012. I was in 4th grade. I was a who.

Why do you like performing in shows with Yorba Linda Spotlight? Everyone is just so kind. We all love each other. And I like to just be at the studio and have fun. I also do the most shows throughout the year with Spotlight and that means I audition. Auditions are one of the best things you can do in my opinion. Even if you don’t get in, or don’t get the role you want. Just keep auditioning.

What is your dream role? My dream role is Edna in Hairspray. Although, I do really want to be Jack in Into the Woods. And while I’m dreaming big, Phantom. But only in Phantom of the Opera, because let’s be honest, love does die. And it will die. Very hard.

Of the roles that you’ve played, what has been your favorite? That’s like asking someone to pick their favorite child. I don’t really have one. I’ve been in so many shows I can hardly remember all the parts I’ve played. But if I had to pick one I would say Uncle Max in The Sound of Music.

Has Spotlight helped you grow as a performer? If so, how? Yes. Every show has taught me something else. Little Mermaid taught me how to mess up and recover on stage. Wizard of oz helped me learn how to master quick changes. I could go on, but the point is yes, I definatly wouldn’t be where I am now without Spotlight.What do you like to do when you’re not performing? I read and write. But I also watch a lot of tv and post rant/reviews on them (follow me on Instagram to read five paragraph essays on why Once Upon A Time is the best tv show @_s_h_o_w_t_i_m_e_)

If you could choose a show for Spotlight to produce, what would it be and why? Gosh I don’t know. I would love to do Into the Woods again, and Mamma Mia would be fun too, but a lot of the shows I want to do aren’t very family friendly. Avenue Q anyone? Oh and I almost forgot I REALLY want to do Jekyll and Hyde. (He’s also one of my dream role….s?)

What are your strongest and weakest traits as a performer? I can’t dance. No but in all seriousness, I’m not the best dancer. But I can sing well, I think.

Of Spotlight’s past shows, which has been your favorite and why? Wizard of Oz. It was such a fun experience all together. I made so many friends and it was one of my first actual lead roles. Not just a supporting character.

Anything else you want to say? Thank you Spotlight for letting me go on my acting journey with you. I can’t wait for Addams Family to open, and all the future shows I get to be a part of with you guys!

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How long have you been performing on stage? My very first show ever was through Yorba Linda Spotlight. I was 8 years old and have been performing for about 8 years now. My older sister introduced me to musical theatre and sparked my passion for performing. Once Upon A Mattress will be my 22nd stage production.

What was your first show with Yorba Linda Spotlight? My very first show with Spotlight was the first time they did Beauty And The Beast back in 2009. My older sister encouraged me to try out and it was my first time ever being on a stage. Once Upon A Mattress will be my 16th show with them.

Why do you like performing in shows with Yorba Linda Spotlight? I love performing with Spotlight because it truly is not like any other company. Spotlight’s quality of shows is not your average community theatre company. I love coming to honestly my second home because of how encouraging and supportive the environment is. Theatre can be very competitive at times and it’s nice to know that we are all there for each other. Also, I love how professional Spotlight is while we continue to have crazy amounts of fun. In every show, I’m always improving and continue to learn new things.

What is your dream role? I would absolutely love to play Penny Pingleton in Hairspray and Yonah in Children Of Eden. I would also like to play Audrey in Little Shop Of Horrors. Each of these roles sound great and interesting in their own ways and I would love to portray them.

Of the roles that you’ve played, which has been your favorite? My first lead ever was in You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown and I was Sally Brown. That was such a fun role that I would love to play again! Also, I really enjoyed playing Andrea Devereaux in Once On This Island. But, playing Queen Aggravain right now in Once Upon A Mattress is definitely going to be in my favorite roles. I love how over the top she is and it’s super fun to be the villain.

Has Spotlight helped you grow as a performer? If so, how? Spotlight has not only helped me grow as a performer but as a person. Their guidance and training has helped me improve in all areas. I have taken various drama and theatre classes that taught me the basics of acting. I have taken weekly voice lessons for years through Spotlight and I have improved immensely. I have taken many dance classes and continue to grow in my abilities. They have taught me the definition of teamwork, determination, and encouragement.

What do you like to do when you’re not performing? I am very involved at my school, El Dorado High School. I am actively involved in EDHS choral music program and theatre department. When I’m not performing at Spotlight or school, I am usually creating makeup looks or hanging out with friends.

If you could choose a show for Spotlight to produce, what would it be and why? I would love for Spotlight to produce Children Of Eden! I have been fortunate enough to have done that show already through my school. I just love the simplicity, story, and gorgeous music. I know Spotlight would do a wonderful job. Some other shows I would love them to put on are Curtains, Catch Me If You Can, Bonnie and Clyde, Little Shop Of Horrors, and Les Miserables.

What are your strongest and weakest traits as a performer? I would consider myself a stronger singer and actress. I have always loved to sing and think it comes most naturally to me. I have definitely improved through vocal lessons at Spotlight. Dancing is probably my weakest trait. I’m not a horrible dancer, but it is what I’m least comfortable with. However, weekly dance classes have definitely helped me and now I’m focusing on tap. I am constantly improving and learning new things.

Of Spotlight’s past shows, which has been your favorite and why? I loved Once On This Island because of how unique it was. It had such a beautiful story, gorgeous music, and fun dance numbers. I also really enjoyed Shrek and Hairspray. They were both very energetic and upbeat shows!

Anything else you want to say? I would like to say how thankful I am for Yorba Linda Spotlight! They have shaped me into the performer and person I am today. They have supplied me with so many wonderful opportunities, lifelong friends, and an abundance of memories I will cherish forever. Through their guidance and support, I continue to learn and improve in every way. I would have never guessed I would be so passionate about theatre and performing as I am today!

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