Meet the Next On Stage Finalists: Maria Elena

Just weeks ago we learned which talented contestants will move forward to the finale of Next On Stage, sponsored by AMDA and Atlantic Acting School! The Top 3 are getting ready to show us what they've got in New York City, as they prepare to perform at the famed 54 Below.

Learn more about the competition.

Who will win the competition? You'll have to tune into the live finale on Sunday, January 18 (12pm ET) to find out! Until then, we are getting to know the students one by one. Meet College contestant Maria Elena from Dexter, Michigan.

What do you love the most about performing?

I love when things go wrong. sometimes you get in such a routine, doing a show over and over, and when things go wrong, it gives you and the audience something to share that you can both laugh about!

What's a role that you'd love to play someday and why?

I would have course LOVE to play the Elphaba, Jennas and Six queens of it all, but one that really interests me is Jamie in the last 5 years. I’d find it so fun to discover the nuances and differences playing it as a woman. I would call myself a pop singer-songwriter, but this would really stretch my acting chops and i think it’d be unique!

Is there a theatre educator who has had a big impact on you as a performer?

My dance professor, Ron de Jesus has been the biggest catalyst in my performance journey. I’ve never been trained in dancing before coming to college, and his direct, clear and focused coaching has made me feel like i deserve to be in the room. As an athlete and student, he knows how to push me to my potential and keep me in a direction of GROWING! I’ve been given the gift of a room that is safe for me to fail—over and over and over.  I spent the first week crying during across the floor, but continuing on through the semester helped me prove to myself that I CAN do hard and new things.  He is truly the light of my Tuesdays and Thursdays, and I’ll be in his class until I graduate. Thank you Ron

Share a fun fact about yourself! 

I have a twin sister named Lia!

Watch Maria's performances so far...

Week 4:

Week 3: 

Week 2:

Week 1: