October 14, 2018

Recent Grad Spotlight: Keeley Anne McCormick

Tell us about yourself
My name is Keeley Anne McCormick, I'm originally from Columbus, Ohio, and I'm a graduate of the Musical Theatre Program, class of 2015! I'm currently touring all around the US with the Broadway production of Something Rotten! by Wayne Kirkpatrick, Karey Kirkpatrick, and John O'Farrell, Directed by Steve Bebout (Orig. Casey Nicholaw).

How did your experience in the U’s Department of Theatre help you as a professional?
My time at the U was a huge growing experience for me. As an actor I feel like it's incredibly important to be as balanced and well-rounded as possible, and with every different aspect of our training from acting to voice, to studio, to dance, to all of the wonderful masterclasses we were fortunate enough to have, I really feel like I graduated with a solid base to take with me to New York and project me into my career. Something that specifically stands out to me now, as I'm performing in a show about Shakespeare, was the study abroad trip to London. It was such an incredible experience. I'm also a firm believer that travel is one of the best educators, so to be able to add everything from that trip into my repertoire (so to speak) was very impactful. 

What is your favorite Utah memory?
My favorite memory from Utah... too many to name! I'll never forget the feeling of holding my classmates hands during bows at the opening of our senior show, Godspell. We had been through so much in those four years, and with all of the ups and downs we really became a family. To cap everything off with such an overwhelming feeling of togetherness was truly special.

What advice do you have for current students?
If I had any advice for current students... Firstly, I'll sound like a broken record, but it's advice I wish I had taken in college: classes are expensive in the outside world and it can be hard to find time to take them, so you've got to take advantage of the time you have--to learn and absorb as much as possible while you're in school, even in your GenEd classes. Secondly, keep a light and open heart. I truly believe what will be, will be. And if you decide to move to New York and hit the pavement, there will be times when it can get you down. But there's a lesson to be learned in every moment, from the rainy days and terrible auditions to the times a stranger pays for your Starbucks, or you finally book the job. What you put into the universe always comes back to you!

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