Meet Lauren Monteleone, Charleston Stage Professional Resident Actor

Lauren Monteleone, Charleston Stage Professional Resident Actor

 

Q: Where did you grow up? Were there any activities you did as a child that led to your passion for theatre and the arts?
A:I grew up in the suburbs of Hamilton, New Jersey. As far back as I can remember I took every type of dance class. There was a point, however, I decided I wanted to be a professional gymnast at age 6 so I stopped dancing. Two weeks later I was right back in dance class. I couldn’t stay away.

 

Q: Where did you study theatre?
A: I studied musical theatre at Shenandoah Conservatory in Winchester, VA.

 

Q: Where have you worked previously? What are some of your favorite roles?
A: I have worked at Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre two summers in a row. Some of my favorite roles include Val in A Chorus Line, Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, Bambi in Curtains and Bird Girl in Seussical.

 

Q: How did you prepare for playing Serena in Legally Blonde? Were there any challenges or things that you were excited about with taking on this character?
A: I was never in a sorority in college so I decided to call a friend from home who is currently in a sorority. She described how big of a deal it is to be in a sorority and how excited they are about events (such as engagements, birthdays, parties). My roommate (Arielle – who plays Margot) and I decided to talk like sorority girls for a week. We also sat in a small cafe in Mt. Pleasant just reading the script over and over. I was really excited about playing a cheerleader and experiencing their “spirit” since I was a band geek in high school (which was awesome). I think my biggest challenge with this show was keeping up my energy throughout. Serena, Margot and Pilar have the challenge of leading the “Greek Chorus” and making sure Elle is always thinking POSITIVE!

Q: You’ve been in performances for the past three weeks… what do you look forward to each performance playing Serena?
A: I look forward to working with all the girls (Greek Chorus) and the audience really enjoying our performance of “Legally Blonde.”

 

Q: Please share with us your thoughts and experience so far on being a Resident Actor with Charleston Stage.
A: I have nothing but positive things to say about Charleston Stage Company. I have never worked with a company who is so passionate about what they do. They really want us to excel in the performances as well as teaching all of the kids. The most exciting part is performing at Dock Street Theatre, but the most fulfilling part is teaching the kids!

 

Featured Left Holding Bruiser: Charleston Stage Professional Resident Actor Lauren Monteleone as Serena in "Legally Blonde the Musical."

 

The cast performs "What You Want."