One of the wonderful new additions to SAU Theatre Department this year is Elena Vallejo.
Newsletter readers may recognize her as being this year's Michael Kennedy Scholarship recipient. But if this is the first time hearing Vallejo's name, it sure will not be the last.
Vallejo is double majoring in Theatre and Education with an Early Childhood endorsement. She is a native of Rock Island, Illinois, and could not have been more excited to start her first year here at St. Ambrose.
"I love all of the opportunities the school gives its students," Vallejo said. "I am able to do so many of the things I love such as writing, photography, and marketing, even though I am not studying in those disciplines. The Theatre Department and the school have already given me so many opportunities that I am grateful for."
Since arriving at SAU, Vallejo has jumped in right away participating in the Fresh Face Revue, as well as being cast in two of directing class's final projects. However, she had lots of experience in the theatre world prior to coming to SAU as well, and her resume proves it.
"Some of my favorite roles I have played have to be Enjolras in Les Miserables or Andrea in Once On This Island," Vallejo said. "Although, my all-time favorite show would have to be Spring Awakening."
When reflecting on her favorite theatre memories, Vallejo recalls all the fond memories she had experienced during the many years of summer camps at the Center for Living Arts. The theatre, which is located in Rock Island, is the theatre Vallejo feels that she grew up in.
"The Center for Living Arts was like my second home," Vallejo said. "Everyone there became family."
Elena Vallejo
Since arriving at SAU, Vallejo has jumped in right away participating in the Fresh Face Revue, as well as two final projects in the Directing Class.
With the fall semester almost over, winter break is fast approaching, and Vallejo cannot wait for all of the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in the remainder of this school year.
"I am looking forward to continuing to meet new people and taking more theatre classes," Vallejo said. "I am also looking forward to the spring shows, I know that even if I might not end up being cast in the shows that I will still be able to be involved with them somehow."
Even though theatre has been put on hold in these troubling times, no pandemic is going to stop Vallejo from pursuing what she loves most. Make sure to keep an eye out for what Vallejo accomplishes next!
Share This Story
