We recently caught up with Grace Lawrence, an alumna of The CarpenBarry Co, who has been up to amazing things since graduating from East Grand Rapids High School. Grace is entering her Junior year as a BFA Musical Theatre student at Oakland University, and this summer, she is set to play Jemilla in RPG Entertainment's production of "Firebringer" a Team Starkid Musical.
We asked Grace how the skills and knowledge she gained through her work with The CarpenBarry Co have helped her in her current endeavors. Grace started taking voice lessons with Elizabeth Barry when she was 13, and over the years, she expanded her repertoire to include both classical and musical theatre pieces. Working with Elizabeth helped her lay down a strong and confident foundation that her classes and experiences in college continue to build on. "Words really can't express how much Elizabeth and all their work did to help me," Grace said.
When we asked what advice she would give to current students in the program who are looking to follow in her footsteps, Grace said, "Know that growth takes time. If you're doing the work, improving yourself, and training hard, eventually you'll get a 'yes'." She auditioned for about 30 shows/companies this year. The job she booked was the last audition she did. "It WILL work out!"
Grace spoke about how her work with The CarpenBarry Co helped to shape her path and prepare her for her current pursuits. "Elizabeth helped me expand my vocal range and technique on classical pieces, supported me in my transition to more Musical Theatre style work, pushed me to enter competitions and sign up for auditions, helped me build my confidence in preparing for said competitions and auditions, was a HUGE support in my college audition process, and continues to support me to this day," Grace said. "I think one time in High School I called her my 'life coach', not just a singing or performance teacher. I still stand by that statement to this day. She was, and still is, the single most helpful coach I've ever had."
Looking ahead, Grace has broadened her ambitions since high school. "Through my time in college, I've found that my passion for theatre doesn't just lie on the stage, but also in all the work that goes into creating a show," Grace said. "I always want to keep acting, but nowadays I think I'm going to pursue more directorial and writing-centric work. I have so many ideas and creative interests, I don't want to limit myself to just one thing!"
We're thrilled to see Grace doing so well and pursuing her passions. We encourage everyone to check out her upcoming performance in "Firebringer" this August at the Planet Ant Theatre in Hamtramck, Michigan. Congratulations, Grace! Check back in the future, we will share the link when tickets go on sale to the public.
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