Student Blogger: Alexandra Curnyn

Now, I'm saying farewell to this chapter as well - writing for this blog. Little did I know a year ago that I'd be starting something new this late into my college career, but now I know this opportunity could not have come at a better time.

You've met some cool people, gone to some parties, and, yes, auditioned for some things. I know a lot of the initial excitement has worn off and you're starting to question why you went to this school in the first place, but hang in there, it gets so much better.

But I knew back then, and know now, that my experiences in theatre have shaped me in endless ways. Therefore, I wrote that fated essay on how the basics of improvisation have taught me to remain as flexible and level-headed as possible in the face of adversity - and to make the best out of any situation. Below is one section of my college essay, which not only granted admission to some of the best and most formative years of my life, but also draws upon what could have been a terrible on-stage mishap if it weren't for mine and my cast's quick thinking and adaptability.

The thing I love about theatre above nearly all else is the sense of community it provides. When you're working on a production, you are a member of a team, doing your part to make sure the show and all involved succeed. Vaccination is the same principle, applied to all of humanity. In order for us to truly 'open up' and get back to feeling that undeniable magic that theatre provides, we must collectively do the right thing to protect ourselves and an industry that is yearning to bounce back better than ever.

If you're in the same boat as me - you love to dance, but it's not your strongest suit - don't worry! Not only can you find roles and shows that play to your strengths in acting and/or singing, but you also can always improve your skills.

Jukebox musicals often get a bad rap among both theatre purists and those who think they are above a good ol' production number. However, not only has Mamma Mia! become a staple for professional and community theatres alike, but the songs of ABBA and the story of Donna and the Dynamos have left a cultural legacy that continues to flourish in 2021. 

I do find that the 'yes, and' mentality is much easier done in real life than within the confines of a stage or classroom. For me, that is. But that doesn't mean it's any less scary. I wrote my college essay all those years ago about how I can make the best of any situation, and can always do things to help myself and those around me using theatre, improv, and on-stage mishaps in an extended metaphor - alongside my formative life experiences.

As Diana Morales says in A Chorus Line, 'kiss today goodbye and point me towards tomorrow.' While tomorrow seems scary, it's comforting to know that who I am and what I hold close to me will stay with me as I go through life.

As soon as tickets for various productions went on sale, I penciled in a few shows that I'm especially excited to see. Whether it's a new production that's yet to be put on stage, or a Broadway staple, I'm ready to splurge on at least a few of these shows in the near future.

I just finished all of my classes and finals for my degree! Currently, the emotions I'm feeling are all over the place, and I know that music only helps me contextualize said emotions. Therefore, I decided that making a playlist would not only help set the mood of starting a new chapter, but also make for a good blog post.

“Ugh, that costume looks horrible on you. See, right around your stomach, you can’t hide anything! Take it off. It’s awful.” I stood in the middle of the theatre under the relentless, beaming stage lights during our tech week 'costume parade' and looked down at my shimmery dress (stomach pudge included, but not too prominent), which matched many of the other ensemble girls'. I began to process these verbal wounds to my teenage, fragile ego, and after a few moments, I wanted nothing more than to hide in the wings until closing night.

If you go onto the MTI website in search of musicals available for licensing, the song cycle The Theory of Relativity is currently the #1 trending show on the call board. Why, you ask? Well, other than being a 'moving and unconventional song cycle' geared specifically towards college-aged students, it also translates well in the world of virtual theatre.

Over a year after the COVID-19 pandemic first raged through the United States and forced theatres to close for the foreseeable future, we're finally seeing a light at the end of a dark, dark tunnel.

Orson Welles once said that 'the enemy of art is the absence of limitations.' Creators of theatre, such as University of Delaware music students Tara O'Connor and Liz Vex, have proved this to be as true as ever during the COVID-19 pandemic.

My final school supply list as a college student consisted of just two things: a book co-authored by the Dalai Lama and a pack of three Speevers juggling balls - complete with a carry case for convenient access! While I knew the book was for spiritual guidance (as I’m also taking a course aptly titled “The Art of Happiness”), I was skeptical

Theatre will be back soon, but in a whole new way. In the meantime, it sounds cliche, but I miss the little things the most. Here are ten of the most specific things about doing live theatre that I miss (as well as ten that… maybe not).

Check out which theatrical leading lady you are below!