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 freshman year acting professor, Jessica Bogart saved my life. I have the utmost respect for her because she was not afraid to sugar-coat anything.   She saw I was struggling, and she helped me realize I needed to take better care of my reputation. My competitive side initially took her words as a punishment, but I now understand that without her, i’d be on a completely different trajectory.  I have grown so much as a performer because of the wake up call she gave me.

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: