To be perfectly honest, I never suspected Maria in West Side Story would be the first role I would play out of college. It is such an honor to be able to say that. This experience has shown me a lot about the abilities I never knew I had, and it has also shown me what it means to be a part of a team. The cast, crew, and directors are not only extremely talented and driven, but they are so inspiring to me. Every night I get ready and change costumes as fast as I can to make it to the side of the stage to watch my peers dance and sing their hearts out! All I can do is smile and think, “Look at them. They are powerful.” Watching them gives me a fire to get out there and contribute exactly what my cast mates are bringing to the story. The crew works just as hard as we do! The story would not be complete without the costumes, beautiful set, lighting, and the crew members to make the scene shifts happen. And the directors tie it all together! It is incredible to work with a group of directors that believe in us and the story. We are a team. We have been blessed with an opportunity to tell a beautiful story together. West Side Story was written for a specific type of energy, and every person in this production has the chance to give a piece of their heart to the audience. What an amazing opportunity! I couldn’t ask for a more meaningful experience.
(Resident Actor Viveka Chandrasekaran As Maria Singing “I Feel Pretty”)
(Professional Guest New York Actor Aaron Velthouse as Tony and Resident Actor Viveka Chandrasekaran as Maria singing “Tonight”)