Ashley shares the role of Dorothy in Spotlight's upcoming production of "Thoroughly Modern Millie"
How long have you been performing on stage?
I've been performing on stage for as long as I can remember. However, I didn't start taking it seriously until the eighth grade, which was five years ago.
What was your first show with Yorba Linda Spotlight?
"Bye Bye Birdie". It was my first time ever performing in a legitimate musical, and I fell in love with it instantly! I've been at Spotlight ever since.
Why do you like performing in shows with Yorba Linda Spotlight?
I love my fellow cast members! I've known most of them for many years, and I'm constantly making new friends. Some of them are even my best friends. I spend a lot of time with these people in and out of rehearsals. Also, I love the staff at Yorba Linda Spotlight. Each and every one of them has a unique vision that I respect and admire.
What is your dream role?
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| Ashley as Marty in Spotlight's 2010 production of "Grease" |
Why should people come see the upcoming production of "Thoroughly Modern Millie"?
It's going to be an incredible performance! Seriously. Everyone's pouring their heart and soul into this show and it's going to pay off. Plus, this is a different kind of show. It's much more demanding than anything we've done in the past. It requires so much of all three disciplines: strong singing, acting, and dancing. I'm amazed at how well the two casts are doing. It's going to be a wonderful show full of entertainment for all!
Of the roles that you've played, what has been your favorite?
Belle in "Beauty and the Beast". I had the honor of playing her twice at two different theater companies, and I got really attached to that character. Some of my fondest memories at YLS are from that show.
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| Ashley as Belle in Spotlight's 2009 production of "Beauty and the Beast" |
Has Spotlight helped you grow as a performer? If so, how?
Yes! One specific area I've grown in is dancing. Before YLS, I wasn't much of a dancer at ALL. Now, I'm dancing in Thoroughly Modern Millie with almost no issues. It's incredible how far I've come with the help of our wonderful choreographer.
What do you like to do when you're not performing?
That's tough......... I guess I'm hanging out with the people I perform with or doing homework. Or looking at colleges.
That's tough......... I guess I'm hanging out with the people I perform with or doing homework. Or looking at colleges.
If you could choose a show for Spotlight to produce, what would it be and why?
All Shook Up! I've seen it three times now and I'm absolutely in love with it. I think there are so many wonderful opportunities! There are a ton of principle roles, a large ensemble, fun songs, lots of dancing, and a laugh-out-loud plot that makes the audience feel good.
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| Ashley rehearsing for her role as Dorothy in Spotlight's "Thoroughly Modern Millie" |
What are your strongest and weakest traits as a performer?
I'd say singing is my strongest. I've been in private lessons for about two years now and I feel that my voice teacher has done a great job teaching me. Dancing is still my weakest point, but I'm learning to work through it at least.
Of Spotlight's past shows, which has been your favorite and why?
I think "Into the Woods" last summer was my favorite show. I'm madly in love with Sondheim's music, even though it's incredibly challenging. That was the fun part. The timing and intervals in the music were difficult to hear, but once I figured it out, I felt so accomplished!
Anything else you want to say?
Yorba Linda Spotlight is amazing!! <3
