New season, new staff members! Help us welcome to the team our newest Education Apprentice, Parker Nelson!
Tell us about yourself and your latest role with Encore!
I am so excited to be here at Encore as an Education Apprentice! I have been involved in theater since I was very young growing up in Charlottesville, Virginia: from doing Robinson Crusoe with a traveling children’s theatre to being involved with my middle school drama club all the way until graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University this last May with a degree in Musical Theatre Performance. Being a theatre kid shaped me and helped me find my voice, and I am so excited to help the kids in NoVa do the same!
What made your decision to join Encore Stage & Studio?
I was drawn to theatre education at the end of my time at VCU, and I was excited by the theatre happening in DC, so this apprenticeship was really the perfect fit for me to bridge the gap between college and a career in the arts. I fully stand behind the concept of “theatre by kids and for kids” so I am very excited to grow alongside the young artists I get to work with this year!
Can you describe your favorite performing arts experience and what made it so memorable?
When I was at VCU I had the opportunity to be in the ensemble of James and the Giant Peach, which was my first show back onstage after the pandemic. I loved the variety of characters I got to play while in the ensemble, and I think the thing that made it so positive and memorable was the cast I got to perform with! Everyone was dedicated to the art we were making together, and we were all so grateful to be able to take the stage again after performing for empty rooms and self-tapes for two years. My favorite part was playing The Empire State Building!
What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member?
I’ve never had the pleasure to see it in person, but my favorite show to watch is Come From Away. The proshot came out during the pandemic and has become one of my favorites to come back to! I love the ensemble nature of the show, the way every actor portrays multiple characters, and the use of on-stage instrumentalists.
Why do you think the performing arts are important for young people?
The performing arts gives young people the opportunity to shine, but it also helps them learn to share the spotlight and lift each other up. These skills young artists learn on stage also apply to everyday life and can be brought into whatever job market they pursue in the future. I believe everyone should try performing arts once in their life, you can only learn and grow from it!
What theme day should Encore have at the office?
As an avid reader, I would love a Book Character Day! Because that’s what we theatre people do: bring characters to life! (Plus I would appreciate the book recommendations)
This season is about courage — what courageous experiences and lessons can we learn in the arts?
It takes courage to speak your mind! Both on stage and behind the curtain there are opportunities to share your own perspective and make a contribution. Everyone’s voice matters, so be courageous and use yours!
Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’m simply so ecstatic to be here! Here’s to a year of courage and wonderful art!
Photos courtesy of Parker Nelson.