Emily joined QCT with plans to serve as a summer intern. She would be stage managing and assisting in several productions; however, with the stay-at-home order, the original plans had to change drastically. With a revamp from live to virtual programming, Emily remained steadfast in her commitment to QCT. She worked alongside Head of Education Brendan, serving as the stage manager for the Virtual Playwrights Festival, and worked as a teaching assistant in summer classes. We were so fortunate to have her as part of our team.
Emily hails from Rushville, IL and was involved in a children’s summer theatre program there, but she says, “what opened my eyes to the theatre was being involved in my high school’s theatre department and realizing how many different types of people come together to make a show happen.
Her favorite theatre memory is when her parents surprised her after school with a weekend trip to see The Lion King at the Fox in St. Louis. “It was amazing and really special to me because that’s when I had the realization that I wanted to work in theatre!” Emily just completed her freshman year at Illinois Wesleyan University, where she is pursuing a BFA degree in Design & Technology for Theatre, with an emphasis in stage management.
“My experience with QCT has exposed me to a whole new community. I grew up not far from here, but I didn’t know how much this community loves this theatre. Just by working with a few people from the area, I knew QCT was well-respected, and people love to be involved with whatever they can be. It doesn’t matter if you have experience in theatre or if it’s your first time performing, everyone is welcomed and loved just the same! One of the best opportunities that I’ve had here is working with Brendan Shea; he has taught me so many new things about the world of theatre in just a short time. I appreciate all the opportunities QCT has given me, and I know what I have learned here will help me in the future.”
Emily joined QCT with plans to serve as a summer intern. She would be stage managing and assisting in several productions; however, with the stay-at-home order, the original plans had to change drastically. With a revamp from live to virtual programming, Emily remained steadfast in her commitment to QCT. She worked alongside Head of Education Brendan, serving as the stage manager for the Virtual Playwrights Festival, and worked as a teaching assistant in summer classes. We were so fortunate to have her as part of our team.