It’s a new year, and we are welcoming a new staff member! Mery Estrella is our new Education Apprentice, and she will be helping in our education programs as well as upcoming productions. Welcome Mery!
Tell us about yourself and your new role at Encore!
I am a recent George Mason University graduate with a BFA in Musical Theater and a minor in Social/Human Rights and am the new education apprentice here at Encore!
What have you done with Encore in the past?
In the past, I have interned/been a teaching artist at the summer camps and most recently was an actor in ‘Circulo/Circle’ and directed “Rabbit in The Moon”
How did you hear about Encore?
I heard about Encore through a search of theater-related summer internships and then found out two of my former college classmates worked here and could give me more information, resulting in me applying this past summer!
What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member?
One of my absolute favorite musicals to watch is probably “In The Heights”, I love the plot and the music!
Why do you think the performing arts are important for young people?
Performing Arts are important to young people as they open the door to many opportunities, whether it be creating a new community, finding your future passion, or exploring new ways to express yourself in ways you never thought possible.
What is your dream character role or dream production to work on and why?
I would love to work on “In The Heights” as it is a show I am familiar with and have loved for many years. The story of this musical is also a story I relate to as a Dominican immigrant from New York and am sure many others relate to as well.
Welcome Mery, we are so excited to have you joining our team! Look out for her if you come to see The Twelve Dancing Princesses this weekend, or if you sign up for our next round of Encore classes.
Photos provided by Mery Estrella. Blog contribution by Parker Nelson.