BWW Blog: Kaci Pelias - Stressed, but Broadway-Blessed

Hello! It has been a long while! These last few weeks I have been studying, stressing, and screaming. Four AP tests, one standardized test, and Annie auditions later, I'm back and ready to discuss all things theatre with you guys!

First off, She Kills Monsters is going really well! We have everything blocked, including this rad hip-hop dance battle that took FOREVER for me, an awkward dork, to learn.

Second, I was blessed with the opportunity to take the AP US History exam last week and put the skills I have learned from Lin-Manuel Miranda to the test. The night before the exam I decided to study whilst listening to the Hamilton soundtrack from start to finish. I realized the mistake I had made by doing this once I reached the heart-wrenching Stay Alive (reprise) and I began to bawl at 12 in the morning. However, I felt adequately prepared for the exam through this absorption of history knowledge in the form of rapping. I may have even quietly whisper-rapped to myself as I took the test...

Third, my school had auditions for our 2016-2017 musical (next year) in advance, and it was STRESSFUL. The auditions were in the midst of AP tests AND I have never seen Annie so I felt off balance when auditioning; I think we all felt off. [On that note, I've noticed that high school theatre departments have a habit of pre-casting: discussing with one another who they think will get which part. I know for certain that my department does this all the time, and while it can be fun, it can cause drama and maybe even hurt someone's feelings.] ANYWAY, for this musical none of us had any clue of who would be cast in certain roles, but the cards have fallen and I, your favorite little blog writer, will be playing Lily St. Regis, Rooster's girlfriend! We don't even start rehearsing until next autumn, but I'm still very excited!

The moral of these seemingly isolated situations: in times of stress, look towards theatre. Look to script reading, showtunes, and videos of your favorite actors. Give yourself some time to pause, pop in your headphones, and jam to The Last Five Years. Set study goals: let yourself check your Broadway overrun Twitter after you read a chapter of your textbook. And each morning, say positive affirmations: "I am talented. I am beautiful. I am Broadway-Bound". Remember that the hard work you put into your life- your work and your academics- brings you one step closer to the Big City. And just think of how wonderful your life will be once you get there.

XOXO,

K

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