Welcome to another alumni interview! Today we are catching up with Carla Astudillo-Fisher, a wonderful actress who has continued in the industry as a performer, recently closing a production of A Chorus Line in Connecticut as Diana Morales. We are so excited to hear what she’s been up to!
Congratulations on your recent performance as Diana Morales in A Chorus Line! What is one piece of wisdom that you learned from that production?
I learned so much during the process for A Chorus Line. Diana has been a dream role of mine since I learned about ACL, but I never really thought I’d be able to play the role, as I am not a trained dancer (shout out to all the strong movers out there!). As soon as I learned about auditions, I really committed myself to becoming a stronger dancer, and I carried that level of commitment into every aspect of the show. It really taught me to stop putting limits on myself. It is never too late to jump into a dance class and become that dancer that you don’t consider yourself to be! Hard work will win every time!
When did you first start doing theatre?
My first role was ensemble in Claremont Elementary School’s 2005 production of Oklahoma!
What is one of your favorite Encore memories?
One memory that really sticks out for me was my first production at Encore, Pirates of Penzance. That year, Encored hired two Equity Actors, Erin Gardiner and Chris Sizemore. I had never worked alongside performers of their caliber, and I just remember being so inspired by their talent and work ethic as a young actor. It was definitely a very impactful experience!
We love highlighting Encore friendships, are there people you are still in touch with from your time at Encore?
It is hard to be away from home as I moved out of VA in 2017, but I love getting to follow many different people I did shows with at Encore on social media and seeing what they’re all up to! I also had the privilege of seeing Encore Alum Usman Ali Mughal in Life of Pi on Broadway in 2023.
What was it like revisiting Legally Blonde? What is your favorite moment from the show?
Getting to not only do LB again, but also reprise the role of Serena, was amazing! It is one of my favorite shows. I would do it a million times! My favorite moment every night was Bend & Snap. It was a blast to perform. Really felt like a party on stage!
What is one way your theater experience has helped you offstage?
I can 100% attest my confidence to starting theatre at a young age. The courage and confidence you build by performing is something I have carried into school presentations, public speaking, job interviews, and even calling to order a pizza!
Lastly — we’re having an Encore alumni reunion in July at Footloose, will you be there!? Or can you share a message from you to share at the event?
I am so sad to miss it! I would just like to send all my love to my Encore Family! I am so grateful for everything Encore gave me while I had the privilege of performing there!
Thanks for catching up with us, Carla! It is awesome to look back at your Encore memories, and we look forward to whatever you do next.
Blog contribution by Parker Nelson.