Theatre isn’t just a hobby, it’s a heartbeat. The smell of the stage, the thrill of the applause, and the power of a story keep them coming back.
Alissa Luft is a freshman at GEHS. Adjusting to school can be overwhelming, but for Alissa, the stage quickly became a place of comfort. Surrounded by bright nights and passionate performers, she discovered a community that made the big school feel a little smaller.
“It is a good distraction for me, since I get to escape reality. I think it saved my life because when I spend time with my friends from the theatre, it makes me forget the hardships,” Alissa said.
Theatre is so much more than what an audience sees on stage. Behind every performance, someone is working twice as hard to keep the show running smoothly, making the magic happen. It’s a place where creativity thrives, in different forms, not just acting.
“I would say that is more than just being on stage and being an actor; there is also a list of technical jobs such as lighting, sound, set building, and more,” Alissa said.
For some, theatre begins as a small spark. A simple talent can grow into something much bigger, a passion that becomes an integral part of who they are. For Alissa, what starts in one corner of the arts can lead to unexpected opportunities, opening the door to a world where creativity feels like home.
“I started by just singing, and I have been singing before I could talk, honestly. So, in quior, my teacher said that I might be good at theatre, so I tried it. Over time, it’s just become a part of me,” Alissa said.
Theatre isn’t always easy. Putting your heart into something and not getting the role can be tough, testing both confidence and resilience. But for those who love it, rejection isn’t the end; it’s motivation. Every setback becomes a lesson, pushing them to grow stronger and keep chasing their passion.
“Theatre is very mental. When we don’t get what we want, it’s frustrating, but I try to accept defeat and keep working because I believe I’m a good actor,” Alissa said.
Theatre can change people in powerful ways. It creates a space where confidence grows and connections flourish. Surrounded by new faces and shared passion, it becomes easier to open up, make friends, and find a voice that once felt hidden. Over time, the stage doesn’t just shape performances; it shapes people.
“It pulled me out of my shell and helped me become more social and accepting. You meet so many people in theatre, and over time, it feels like you can talk to anyone,” Alissa said.
Some theatre projects spark excitement because of their unique challenges. Shows attract interest not only for their stories but for complex characters and the chance to tackle something new. Working on a production with diverse roles and a challenging script pushes performers to grow in skill and understanding.
“I’d really love to do Anastasia. The story is interesting, and it would be challenging because of the foreign characters and the fact that the script is harder to decipher since it takes place in Russia,” Alissa said.
Preparing for a performance isn’t just about memorizing lines; it’s also about self-care. Taking breaks from the intense schedule, resting, and reflecting helps performers stay focused and bring their best to the stage. Balancing hard work with self-care ensures passion doesn’t turn into burnout.
“I try to take better care of myself and step back from the crazy grind. If I overwork, I won’t give the performance I want. So, I spend time relaxing and reflecting,” Alissa said.
For many, theatre is more than an activity; it’s a refuge. It offers a place to step away from everyday pressures, immerse oneself in a character, and find joy in creating something
