Alumni Spotlight: Theatre
Cassandra Ellwing, Class of 2011
Why did you choose this program/major?
I auditioned for one show in my freshman year at LC and after that I was hooked! When I found out that there was going to be a Bachelor’s program for Theatre, I decided it was fate to stay at LC and be a part of the first class. Theatre was what kept me going and what made me want to excel in school. Also, I couldn’t have found a better program. Nowhere else could I have found the close-knit group, dedicated teachers and had as many experiences available to me. Those things have prepared me for the career that I have now with Clockwise.
Why did you choose to attend Lincoln College?
LC kind of chose me. After a semester at a local Community College, I had decided that I wasn’t going to college. After a tour of Lincoln, I decided to give college another shot. I had met a few teachers and also the Fine Arts staff. I was told that I would have the opportunity to audition for shows and scholarships right away. Also, school and I hadn’t gotten along very well in the past and LC was a place that I thought would help me to get past my challenges. LC saw the potential in me and brought it out so that by the end of my time there I went from mediocre student to the class “overachiever.”
What advice do you have for prospective Lincoln College students?
Believe in yourself. Nothing is impossible or out of your reach as long as you care enough to work for it.
Best Lincoln College memory?
It’s a tie between getting cast as Olive Madison in the female version of Odd Couple during my freshman year or working on Much Ado About Nothing during senior year. Olive was by far my favorite part to play, but with Much Ado I was challenged by having many different roles, including one of the leads, Beatrice, Costume Design, and Marketing. That experience really helped prepare me for the different roles I have taken on at Clockwise Theatre as a Company Member.
John J. Stephens, Class of 1996
Why did you choose this program/major?
I knew that I wanted to be a music teacher and wanted the best education I could find. I always have had the passion to work with children and give them the opportunity to perform and learn about music and theatre.
Why did you choose to attend Lincoln College?
I wanted to come to Lincoln College because of the wonderful music department and working with Bill Buffington and the Lincoln College Express Show Choir. I knew I would get great training and ready myself for a four year university.
What advice do you have for prospective Lincoln College students?
If you are not sure about what you want to major in, take the time to try out different areas and make sure you fit into that area you think you want to major in. Get involved in your school and make sure you don’t just only go to classes. Join a sports team, try out for a play, join the choir or any club you have interest in. These are the best years of your life and I made my LIFELONG friends at Lincoln College. I wouldn’t give up that time for anything.
Best Lincoln College memory?
Performing at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios with the Lincoln College Express Show Choir. We were in front of Space Mountain performing for thousands of people and loved the feeling of being a star in Disney World. Not only was it a great show, but a great audience. Some of my favorite memories were with Bill and Linda Buffington and the Lincoln College Express Show Choir.