In the summer of 2024, I completed my mentorship by spending a month and a half in London, England, studying with the London Summer Music Theatre Academy. This immersive program featured a wide range of masterclasses in vocal performance, acting, dance, theatre business, songwriting, and promoting visibility. These sessions were led by esteemed industry professionals, including West End icons Alice Fearn, Jordan Crouch, and Natalie Bennyworth.
A highlight of the program was premiering a brand-new musical, Animal Farm: A Twisted Musical Tail—a reimagining of Orwell’s classic—off-West End at the historic Bridewell Theatre. With the production being a new work, I had the incredible opportunity to originate a lead role (Clover) and collaborate closely with the creative team of writers and composers, bringing their vision to life.
Additionally, I made my West End debut on the final day of the program, performing at London’s premiere cabaret venue, The Crazy Coqs. I had the privilege of singing two pieces—one from the Golden Age of musical theatre and another from the Contemporary era.
My dedication and work ethic during my time in London opened the door to an exciting opportunity: a Zoom audition with an agent in New York City. This led to a callback audition in New York upon my return to the States, where I successfully booked representation in theatre, TV, and film. Now, I’m preparing to fulfill my lifelong dream of moving to New York post-graduation to pursue a career in acting—and I’m planning to share an apartment with friends I met during my studies abroad!
The London Summer Music Theatre Academy strengthened my skills as a “triple threat” performer—singer, actor, and dancer. My time abroad was packed with rehearsals, masterclasses, private lessons, and attending West End productions, where I learned directly from industry professionals. Beyond enhancing my craft, this experience also marked my first time traveling abroad alone. I gained valuable life skills in navigating transportation, airports, lodging, and adapting to a culture with norms quite different from those in central Illinois.
This experience is one I will cherish for a lifetime, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the RLP program. Choosing to attend Eureka College as a Reagan Fellow, combined with dedication and hard work, has set me on the path to achieving my dream of a career in the performing arts!
