“I love that there are so many opportunities to experience other people’s work. There are tons of shows, recitals, exhibits, masterclasses, field trips, and concerts that allow you to see the work of your peers and be reminded that we are all working together to make art of our own.”
Alani Gross-Roberts is graduating from the Musical Theatre Department and next year, will be attending Columbia College Chicago for a BFA in Musical Theatre!
Alani valued her time at The Academy and the opportunity to try new things.
“In terms of arts education, I have learned a lot about the importance of vulnerability, and allowing yourself to try new things and using those newfound tools in the creation of your work. It is so rewarding in the end because you realize that you can do a lot more than you thought you could. The Academy is all about experimentation and dynamics. The school really wants you to grow and the only way you can do that is to push yourself into that wider area of your territory. In terms of academics, I have also learned about the importance of self-evaluation — really taking note of how I learn, what things I have done to succeed in this area, and keeping it consistent. I have found a lot of organizational techniques that I am excited to bring with me to college.”
Alani will miss her musical theatre faculty, especially those who guided her toward the department.
“I will miss the Lunch Hour Singing Recitals with Patricia Rusk. If it wasn’t for Pat asking me to join that class (which is something I would not have done on my own), I would not have auditioned for my first musical despite being in the Music Department. If it wasn’t for that musical, I would not have known that this is something that I wanted to do with my life, and my college plans would be very different right now. I would also be a completely different person. Children of Eden will always have a special place in my heart, and so will Pat Rusk.”
Alani will also miss the performances, and the hard work that went into making each happen.
“In terms of ensemble work, my favorite musical was All Shook Up. That show was fun because I got a million costume changes and several different made-up characters. If I had to pick a show to tour with, I would choose this one. In terms of solo work, my favorite play is Shakespeare’s The Scottish Play, which just closed in January 2020, and featured an all-female cast. I played the main character’s wife. That show was exhausting in every way and I am so grateful because it challenged me to the core as an artist and as an actress. I learned a lot about how I work, in terms of emotion and technicalities, and I would definitely do that show again in a heartbeat. It is the best thing that has ever happened to me.”
Congratulations Alani!