We sat down with Lauryn Kay, Charleston Stage’s new Institutional Giving Manager, to learn more about her passion for the performing arts and community enrichment in Charleston. Read below:
Tell us about your background in the performing arts.
I grew up with a strong passion for music that came from singing in school choirs and shows. My favorite part of high school was singing and dancing in show choir, and I knew music and performing arts would always be a big part of my life. I studied music at Charleston Southern University and received my Master’s degree in Vocal Performance at the University of Florida. During this time, I sang in choral ensembles, operas, and theatre productions. My favorite roles were The Witch (Into the Woods) at CSU and Rosina (Barber of Seville) with UF Opera Theater. After college, I worked in arts administration and frequently performed with Gulfshore Opera in Fort Myers, FL. Since moving back home to Charleston this year, I have participated in concerts with The King’s Counterpoint choir, Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, and worked for Spoleto Festival USA.
Nonprofit development is a special vocation of work. What does serving the arts community in Charleston mean to you?
The arts community in Charleston has a special place in my heart. This is a city I love to call home! I feel privileged to work downtown in the same places I watched musicals and performed in choir concerts. I want to serve this community by helping to make theatre and live performances more accessible to Charleston locals and visitors. Through this mission, theater lovers are united!
What excites you about Charleston Stage?
Charleston Stage is beaming with quality theater productions and diverse educational programs. Amongst this, there is a sense of community and collaboration that I’m thrilled to join!
What is your favorite show of all time?
If I had to pick a favorite, it’s the all-time classic, West Side Story. I played Anita at CSU and have seen it more times than I can count – it never gets old!
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