I knew since the start of my journey at Ithaca College that I would study abroad in London, England. What I couldn't have possibly known or fathomed was how much the experience would change me. How it would drill itself into my very being and touch not only my heart, but my soul and the core of who I am.
A piece of myself will always be connected to London.
It's incredibly rare to find a place that shares your morals and values so directly. Seeing London's emphasis on the arts and accessibility for the arts moved something deep within me. In the United States, Broadway and theatre has become a luxury only intended for those who can afford it. In the U.K., I found myself surrounded by art and culture just waiting to be consumed by anyone. A plethora of free museums and art galleries begged to be explored. Costly theatre prices appeared left and right for nearly every show currently lighting up the West End.
I remember thinking to myself, The arts are so cared for here. It's not just something a small group of people enjoy, it's for everyone. It is a necessity here. It is the beating heart of this city.
Living in London for four months was an incredibly emotional experience for me and, truthfully, I was heartbroken to leave. Out of that bittersweet sadness was the immense gratefulness for the opportunity and the reflection it provided me. It made me look at myself as a human being and artist and fully realize what was important to me in terms of keeping the arts accessible and a daring reflection of society.
So, I will forever keep London with me. It will always guide me and I will remember its magic and drive going forth into my own ventures.
GALLERY
THE U.K. (London, Bath, Stonehenge)
National Theatre at Home: Celebrating Vanya & People, Places and Things Press Event
Having previous worked with the National Theatre on a campaign for National Theatre at Home, I was beyond thrilled to be invited to an event at the theatre celebrating the releases of Vanya and People, Places and Things on their streaming platform.
The National Theatre was easily one of my most beloved spots in London. Its complex is home to so many indescribable theatrical experiences. I had the delight of seeing both The Grapes of Wrath and The Other Place at NT and both moved me beyond belief. NT's commitment to creating art that is so poignantly a reflection of society is groundbreaking. They are paving the way for accessibility in the theatre with their streaming service and dedication to making theatre for people everywhere.
The Beauty of Bath
As a longtime Jane Austen enthusiast, taking a day trip to Bath was an experience straight out of my dreams.
Walking down its cobblestone streets felt like something straight out of a period drama romance novel. As a film fan, I had a ball seeing some of the filming spots from Netflix's hit series Bridgerton and Warner Brothers' Wonka. Around every corner in Bath, there was another picturesque sight to behold.