Interviews and Testimonials

Our very first interview is with Amelia! Amelia is a local actor who is a part of various Berkeley Rep Programs and initially found theatre as a way to pursue a creative outlet through her school’s theatre class. Amelia felt encouraged by her high school theatre instructor as well as various teachers through the Berkeley Rep. In particular, the Summer Intensive programs at the Berkeley Rep were some very notable experiences. Her favorite role she has played so far is the lead in Radium Girls, Grace. This show was specifically notable to her because of its authenticity and how it displayed a real story. She describes this experience as having, “a different kind of pressure” due to its nature and complex subtext. Theatre that tells real stories is significantly impactful and even more powerful to be a part of. Amelia has enjoyed her school’s theatre program and has been able to find opportunities through that. She describes this program as “weird and little” but also “a big family” Regardless of the weirdness, she has found a lot of comfort within the community and values the experience she has gained. Amelia identifies a particular flaw in the Bay Area theatre realm as it is often costly and accessibility can be tricky. Particularly in Berkeley she states that there is a, “really rich theatre culture” Ticket prices are fairly high and programs outside of schools are competitive and expensive to partake in. Seeking these out can be discouraging, but various local theaters have student prices for tickets which are more reasonable but not always universally affordable. Amelia also points out how resources are “spread out differently” and not available from city to city. The political climate is unpredictable and is harming the arts little by little. Amelia describes it as “disheartening” but also believes that continuing to pursue arts is how we fight back and salvage them. Having an outlet for the arts is very important. Amelia emphasizes the importance of participating in local community theatre whether it be in a production or seeing a production. There are so many paths to take in theatre and it is much more diverse of a career than it is thought to be. The community found in theatre is incredibly valuable and can create such special, lasting connections. Looking forward, Amelia sees a need for more experimentation and room for error. Being open to new things and not letting standards be restrictive is crucial to enriching theatre. Amelia has some encouraging wisdom for those looking to pursue acting, she says, “If you don’t try, you’ll never know” trying is the best way to learn, not only about the subject but about yourself.