For several weeks, 12 esteemed alumni artists have been preparing to take the stage alongside students at this year’s Season Premiere. As part of the process in putting together a memorable show, Cindy Peca, Orange County School of the Arts’ (OCSA) creative director, spent time getting to know each individual artist and their experience as OCSA students. Here is what they had to say:
How has OCSA positively impacted your life? What skills and lessons have you taken away that have shaped you into who you are today?
Lauren Lim Jackson (CMD, ‘03): “My experience at OCSA has not only shaped me as an artist but as a citizen of this world. High school can be a very scary environment for students, especially those who are considered ‘different,’ but at OCSA, everyone is welcome and celebrated. Being able to learn that at such a young age shapes amazing future adults and shaped ME.”
Adam J. Levy (MT, ‘12): “I couldn’t possibly quantify the amount of ways that OCSA has positively impacted my life - BUT, I’ll try. OCSA was my home away from home. It was the place where I felt safest to explore the kind of person and artist that I wanted to be without judgment or fear. Every teacher I had, both academic and artistic, invited me into their classroom with open arms and a willingness to capitalize on my strengths, and help me make the most of my weaknesses. Every opportunity I had while at OCSA felt like the stepping stones I needed in order to be successful in life.”
Brooke Averi (CMD, ‘11): “Not only did OCSA provide important skills and lessons to guide me through college and into my professional career, but it shaped me into a loving, accepting, hopeful, open-minded, young individual who roots for her peers and values community over competition. This is a level of professionalism that only comes with experience and MONTAGE! gave me many opportunities to put that into practice. By the time I booked my first job in NYC, I already had all of these skills. It was the best high school experience I could have ever had. OCSA was perfect for me and its perfect for everyone who goes here. That’s why we choose this school. I love OCSA because OCSA loves me.”
Elise Vannerson (MT, ‘10): “I learned more about the real world in high school than I did in college. The faculty at OCSA treat you like an adult. They give you responsibility and truly believe that you will come through. The trust that comes from that is monumental. It allowed me to recognize and fully step into my talent, which prepared me to step into the harsh environment that is show business knowing I have something to offer that is worthwhile.”
Have any special relationships come out of your time here at OCSA?
Dan Reckard (IM, ‘07): “Married to my OCSA high school sweetheart, Whitney! Our first born was born in September — OCSA class of 2038?”
Matt Isaac (FTV, ‘15): “Undecided Future is still going strong after being founded my freshman year. We are now 10 years in and have a brotherhood like no other.”
Tyler Hindsley (IM, ‘07): “OCSA has provided several special relationships including finding my multi-talented and inspiring wife. We both were a part of OCSA Instrumental Music Conservatory and just celebrated our eighth wedding anniversary.”
Brice Snyder (PM, ‘17): “I met two of my band members from my old band Railgun, Cole Jones (class of 2015) and Luke Cohen (class of 2014).”
Elijah Vann (PM, ‘20): “My band and my closest friend group consist entirely of OCSA alumni.”
Additionally, Brooke Averi, Adam J. Levy and Elise Vannerson maintain a strong bond, particularly because of their involvement in the theater community of New York City.
Please share your favorite OCSA memories.
RJ Higton (CMD and MT, ‘18): “Meeting Krysta Rodriguez. I was cast in Musical Theatre's production of A Chorus Line my freshman year at OCSA with Krysta as director, and it will forever be the beginning of my musical theatre adventures. Krysta inspired me so much that two years later I made the switch into Musical Theatre, which has led me to where I am today.”
Trinity Milosek (PM, ‘18): “Graduation was hands down my favorite event because it was the final performance of my young adulthood where I got to celebrate all my and my peers’ achievements and growth both academically and artistically. I felt so proud to have been a part of an arts-based institution, especially since the arts are not commonly supported throughout other schools. Graduation was the moment I recognized my growth and transformation as an artist.”
Sam Victoria (PM, ‘19): “As I grow older and gain more experiences in life and in my career, one thing that I always value and prioritize anytime I have the opportunity, is doing what you love with people that you love. And I'm extremely grateful to OCSA for giving me that opportunity time and time again. Performing music that you love with some of your closest friends is an experience that you won't find anywhere else, it's truly a beautiful thing.”
Season Premiere takes place Saturday, Sept. 11. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see highlights of these artists’ incredible performances.