Setting the Stage

Transcript

Illinois Wesleyan has long been home to a vibrant community of artists, musicians, designers, and performers. Not only has this small but mighty University graduated some of the most celebrated artists and authors working today, over the years, it has launched a host of working artists who thrive outside the spotlight, making their livings, pursuing their passions. Meet, Ethan, a theater major who is gonna share with us what he loves about being part of the artistic community here at IWU. Ethan, the spotlight is all yours.

– Thanks, Alex. What’s going on everyone? As a kid in the Chicago suburbs growing up, I was mostly interested in sports. However, after getting cast in a couple school musicals, I started to shift my focus to performance. And by the time I was a junior in high school, I knew I wanted to study theater in college. One of the major reasons I chose Illinois Wesleyan University is the artistic community. Not only do we have a vibrant School of Art and a revered School of Music where I take voice lessons, but the School of Theater Arts is filled with genuine, real, down-to-earth people who are here to learn and grow just like me. I’m inspired by the talent of our student and professors alike. It’s no wonder that a music theater and design of technology programs, are nationally ranked and acclaim. What’s amazing about that is that every School of Theater Art student, gets the opportunity to work with every faculty member, no one program above another. In addition to our amazing main stage productions, one of the things I really like about Illinois Wesleyan University is that there are dozens of opportunities to create every year. Not only do we have a student film festival, but the Phoenix Theater Company, is a completely student-run theater company, which is a space for students to collaborate on projects they’re really passionate about. One of the coolest things about Illinois Wesleyan is that no matter what your area of study, you’re always going to be exposed to subjects outside of your major. IWU nursing students might quote Shakespearean, pre-med students might talk philosophy. Because I’m taking classes in history and science, I know I’m a better actor. IWU has history in the arts. Oscar nominees, Emmy winners, OB, Tony, Grammy winners, bestselling authors, actors, musicians, poets, producers, artists, just to name a few. Coming after them, I know there’s an amazing support network out there, just waiting for me to take my first few steps into my career. Because of all of this, I truly feel ready to graduate Wesleyan and start my journey in this industry. Alex, take it away.

– Nicely done, Ethan. With that kind of energy and talent, I have a feeling you have a very bright future ahead. Thanks again.